The Irish government will begin a legal challenge against the UK government’s decision to provide immunity for Troubles-era crimes. The Troubles Legacy Act became law in September, despite opposition from Dublin and all Northern Ireland’s main political parties. Critics argued the legislation provided an amnesty and removed access to justice, causing resentment from victims and survivors.
Norther Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris commented he “profoundly regrets” the Irish decision, adding that the Irish government’s action was inconsistent with its record on dealing with legacy matters. Victims and survivors have already taken action against the bill – which Boris Johnson, then prime minister, said in 2021 was to “draw a line under the Troubles” – at Belfast’s High Court. The conflict, which lasted 30 years, totalled over 3,500 deaths and left thousands more seriously injured.
Ireland’s challenge is being taken under the European Convention on Human Rights. Tánaiste (Irish Deputy PM) Micheál Martin stated that the UK government had “pursued legislation unilaterally” despite the concerns of the Irish government and others. “Most importantly, this legislation is opposed by people in Northern Ireland, especially the victims and families who will be most directly impacted by this Act,” he added.
The Irish challenge means that the Troubles Act is being challenged on two legal fronts, with bereaved relatives going to court in Belfast and Dublin is acting in Strasbourg. The Irish government has opposed the UK’s new legacy law right from its conception, and the legal challenge will undoubtedly be seen as a significant step that will evaluate further political implications. Victims’ groups had lobbied it repeatedly to take the case in Europe, which now signifies that the only show in town is being challenged on two legal fronts
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