NIO Slammed Over Video Featuring Lyra McKee's Family

The Northern Ireland Office (NIO) is facing criticism over a video it released featuring Lyra Mckee's sister making a heartfelt plea for a return to government.

Alliance MEP Naomi Long said the post, which shows Nichola Corner calling for local politicians to reestablish power-sharing, is an "appalling manipulation of the family's grief".

The NI Assembly has been suspended for over 1000 days since the breakdown of relations between the DUP and Sinn Fein.

Journalist Lyra McKee was fatally shot during a night of rioting in L'Derry's Creggan estate on Thursday 18 April.

Calling for a return to devolved government, Ms Corner said: "Since Lyra was killed we have been suffering every single day, and we have become determined to ensuring that no other person is killed within Northern Ireland.

"It's important that our Executive gets back up and running because they are the people who have the power to make bigger changes within our county that will benefit all of the young people of Northern Ireland, both now and in the future, in the hopes that we will evolve into a peaceful society where everyone is valued and everyone is safe everyday of their lives."

The video message came just days ahead of legislative reform on abortion and same-sex marriage. The UK Government will act on the NI (Executive and Formation) Act in the absence of the restoration of Stormont's institutions by 21 October.

The DUP issued a statement this week supporting a call to reignite the NI Executive in the hope of halting any such changes.

The Alliance Leader slammed the Northern Ireland Office for what she perceived as a manipulation of the grieving family.

Ms Long said: "The @NIOgov know 'now' means denying both LGBTQ+ people and women their rights.

"We're ready to restore an Assembly & Executive capable of delivering equality and human rights for all of our people.

"In very poor taste."

Reports have emerged of Stormont talks scheduled for later this week, however it is unclear if any such discussions will go ahead before the new laws are implemented.



(JG)