Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan-Monaghan, Brendan Smith, has again raised with the Taoiseach legacy issues arising from the Troubles and highlighted the need to have the Northern Ireland Assembly and Executive restored.

During a Dáil debate Deputy Smith detailed the legacy issues and the need for the restoration of the Political Institutions in Northern Ireland.

Deputy Smith said, “I hope we will see significant progress without delay in regard to re-establishing the Assembly and Executive. While there are a number of important issues that a re-established Assembly and Executive will have to address, I believe the matter of legacy issues related to the Troubles needs to be dealt with comprehensively and not side-lined. 

“Throughout my time as a Public Representative I have met and worked with and supported many families of victims.  Unfortunately many have lost a sibling, parent, son or daughter but they are no nearer to getting the truth in relation to those crimes.  What is frequently raised with me is the fear of family members that they may not live long enough to get the truth or see justice served. 

“While I welcome the Taoiseach’s support regarding my comments I hope that he will follow through and continue to raise the matter in any upcoming discussions with regards to the re-establishment of the Political Institutions established under the Good Friday Agreement.

“For those who have lost loved ones during the Troubles, there will never be closure just by getting the truth, but I hope that it will at least in part alleviate the awful pain that they continue to go through.  I sincerely hope that progress can be achieved.  It is something that will require strong support from both Governments and the Political Parties in Northern Ireland but these are very important issues that need to be addressed,” concluded Deputy Smith.