A newly released report by the Irish Council for Civil Liberties (ICCL) and Northern Ireland’s Committee on the Administration of Justice (CAJ) urges the Irish government to establish a Historical Investigations Unit (HIU). This unit aims to address unresolved cases of deaths, torture, and ill-treatment, particularly those arising from the Troubles.
The report identifies the HIU as one of three essential mechanisms to uphold Ireland’s legal commitments regarding historical human rights violations. It seeks to ensure that victims and survivors, many of whom have fought for truth and justice for years, receive recognition and accountability for their suffering.
In addition to creating the HIU, the report suggests critical steps, such as implementing independent public inquiries and establishing an all-Ireland truth commission to investigate repetitive themes of conflict-related abuses. The comprehensive approach aims to ensure justice and thorough investigations across Ireland, particularly in the south.
Claire Mc Evoy, Acting Co-Director of ICCL, emphasised the legal responsibilities of Ireland to address past abuses. “The State must … act once an alleged violation has occurred.” Her call for transparency and prompt action aims to give a voice to the numerous victims and survivors still seeking answers today.
Echoing this urgency, Daniel Holder of CAJ highlighted the need for a dedicated HIU, referencing past agreements that proposed new institutions for addressing historical injustices. He stressed that gaps remain in the investigation framework within the jurisdiction of the Irish government, underscoring the necessity for reform.
During the report’s launch, several victims shared personal stories that exemplified the lasting impact of unresolved cases. Osgur Breatnach, a victim of wrongful conviction, articulated the continued suffering bred by the Irish Government’s failure to conduct independent inquiries.
Margaret Urwin, representing Justice for the Forgotten, also advocated for robust mechanisms to investigate unaddressed legacy cases, stating that it is high time for accountability in Ireland. Family member Lucia O’Farrell lamented the unanswered questions surrounding her son’s tragic death, pushing for a thorough investigation of state failings.
Darragh Mackin of Phoenix Law emphasised the need for the Irish Government to lead by example in human rights compliance, insisting that families affected by past injustices deserve effective and independent investigations. He declared this report a call to action for the government to fulfil its duty regardless of borders.
The Irish Council for Civil Liberties (ICCL) and Northern Ireland’s Committee on the Administration of Justice (CAJ) released a report advocating for the establishment of a Historical Investigations Unit (HIU) to investigate unresolved human rights violations and incidents of torture. The report highlights Ireland’s legal obligations to victims of the Troubles and suggests implementing independent inquiries and an all-Ireland truth commission. Advocates and victims urge the government to address these historic injustices and promote accountability.
The report by ICCL and CAJ serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing battle for justice in relation to historic human rights violations in Ireland. Advocates and victims alike are united in their demand for the establishment of an HIU and independent inquiries that can provide answers and closure for families long affected by unresolved abuses. With clear recommendations and passionate voices, the call for action resonates across the nation, urging the government to uphold its moral and legal commitments to human rights. This journey towards truth and reconciliation is a necessary step for both healing and moving forward in a society scarred by its past.
Original Source: www.iccl.ie
