Ballymurphy Families Reject Meeting With NI Secretary

Relatives of 10 people killed during the Troubles have refused an invitation to meet with Karen Bradley, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.

Ms Bradley reached out to the Ballymurphy families after facing criticism about offensive comments she made over security force killings in Northern Ireland.

Her remark in the House of Commons on Wednesday, 06 March, that killings by the police and military during Northern Ireland's conflict were "not crimes" was later clarified as being "open to misinterpretation" after it sparked fury among victims and political parties.

The Secretary released an official statement of apology on Thursday, saying she was "profoundly sorry" and there were no excuses for her comments, before offering to meet the bereaved families.

She added that every crime, no matter who the perpetrator, should be properly investigated by independent investigators.

The ten people who died at Ballymurphy were killed during an Army operation in which paramilitary suspects were detained without trial. An inquest into their deaths is ongoing.

The families released a statement on Thursday evening: "Ballymurphy massacre families have been requesting a meeting with the secretary of state since she took up her position of secretary of state for Northern Ireland. Karen Bradley hasn't even replied to these requests.

"Tonight we find that she would like to meet us tomorrow to apologise for the hurt she has caused. We will not meet her and have one request for Mrs Bradley and that is for her to resign immediately."

Meanwhile, SDLP leader Colum Eastwood has made it clear that no apology from the Secretary will ever make up for the hurt caused by her "insensitive and ignorant remarks".

After speaking to Ms Bradley, he commented: "I have made it very clear to Karen Bradley that she must tender her resignation. Her remarks have struck a blow to the confidence of people here who rely on her to be an honest broker for Northern Ireland. Her interference with due process just days before the Bloody Sunday families await news of potential prosecutions is reprehensible.

"No lukewarm words can ever undo the hurt caused to families who lost loved ones at the hands of state violence. Theresa May would do well to remind her cabinet that they are not spokespeople for the DUP.

"This is a pivotal moment for legacy and no party should be found wanting in their opposition to the Secretary of State stepping down."



(JG/CM)