Government should outline strategy to ensure Britain discloses information on Dublin/Monaghan Bombings – Seán Crowe TD

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs Seán Crowe TD has asked Minister Frances Fitzgerald to outline how the Government is working to ensure that Britain lives up to its responsibility to disclose all the information in relation to the Dublin/Monaghan bombings in 1974

Deputy Crowe was speaking during a debate in the Dáil on the 6th anniversary of the passing of a unanimous motion in the Oireachtas calling on the British Government to provide full disclosure.

He said:

“40 years ago, on 17th May 1974, 34 lives were lost in no warning bombs in Dublin and Monaghan.

“There is compelling evidence that the bombing was carried out by British Agents in Loyalist paramilitary organisations. They were assisted by members of the RUC and UDR. Following the bombing a cover up was but in place by the British military and political establishment.

“The investigations were frustrated through misdirection and lack of co-operation. That remains the situation to this day.

“In common with all cases of collusion, there was no in-depth investigation, no charges put and no one held to account.

“The families of those killed and injured, like all victims of conflict and deserve to know the truth about who was involved and who led the cover up.

“6 years ago all the parties in Oireachtas supported a motion calling on this British Government to make available all information in their procession with regard to the bombings.

“To date they have ignored this motion and by extension the wishes of the people of this state and this has heaped insult onto injury for the families.

“British Government spokespeople have said that there is nothing there and that there is nothing to hide. Why then will they not release the files?

“The relationship with Britain must be based on equality and respect.

“I must ask you what you believe can be done and what you will do.

“What is the strategy for having Britain live up to their responsibility and disclose the information requested by this house?”