Decision To Refuse Finucane Inquiry Upheld

The High Court in Belfast has upheld the Prime Minister's decision not to hold an independent inquiry into the death of Pat Finucane.

Mr Finucane was shot dead by loyalists at his home in north Belfast in 1989.

His family have campaigned for an independent inquiry into his murder after investigations found there was collusion between loyalists and the security forces.

Commenting on the decision SDLP MLA Alex Attwood said: "The British Government entered into a commitment for an independent, public inquiry.  At a family, government and political level, the London Administration is in breach of that commitment. Today’s judgment does not change these facts.

"The SDLP will consider the judgment of the High Court and the grounds on which the argument of Geraldine Finucane has been refused. It is of real concern, however, that a commitment, publicity stated, not denied though continually resisted by London is not deemed by the High Court to support a successful challenge by the Finucane family."

Fianna Fáil spokesperson on Foreign Affairs Brendan Smith has reiterated his call for an independent inquiry into the circumstances that led to the murder .

He said: "Fianna Fáil has long believed that a public inquiry is needed to establish the full truth of events leading up to this murder. We secured the agreement of the British Government to appoint a judge of international standing to investigate the murder at the Weston Park Agreement.  But unfortunately, the British Government has so far failed to live up to that agreement. It is clear that only a full inquiry will allow for all documents to be released, and for witnesses to be cross-examined. It is the only way of getting to the truth about the extent of security force collusion and exactly who knew what."

(CD)