Patrick Finucane Debate
Full Debate: Read Full DebateBaroness Foster of Aghadrumsee
Main Page: Baroness Foster of Aghadrumsee (Non-affiliated - Life peer)Department Debates - View all Baroness Foster of Aghadrumsee's debates with the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
(3 months, 3 weeks ago)
Lords ChamberIt is my understanding that inquests can be restarted as soon as the necessary steps are taken. The Government do not seek to delay that any longer than is absolutely necessary, for reasons that I am sure the noble Baroness can appreciate.
First, I take this opportunity to welcome the noble Baroness, Lady Chapman, to her place dealing with Northern Ireland issues and look forward to working with her in the future. Today is the start of the Omagh bomb inquiry in Omagh, and I am sure the whole House will have the victims’ families in the forefront of their mind as they go through the start of what will be a very long procedure. Does the Minister agree that it is important that His Majesty’s Government never take any action or decision that would give the perception to victims right across Northern Ireland that some victims’ lives are worth more than others?
I am grateful to the noble Baroness, Lady Foster, for her welcome. I note, as she did, that today is the start of investigations into what happened in Omagh. On her point about all victims being treated with equal respect and concern, of course she is right.