Amnesty International has accused the UK of betraying victims of the Troubles and urged the Irish Government not to drop its legal challenge against controversial British legislation in the European Court of Human Rights.
The Irish Government initiated a legal challenge against the UK last December to contest legislation that ended all investigations and inquests related to the Troubles. Despite promises to repeal the legislation, the British government is now seeking to retain certain elements, including a commission that victims’ groups oppose.
Victims, along with Amnesty International and legal representatives, expressed disappointment at the British government’s decision to appeal a Court of Appeal ruling. This move has raised doubts about the government’s commitment to repeal and replace the Troubles Act as promised.
Individuals like Martina Dillon, who lost her husband during the Troubles, feel betrayed by the British government’s actions. They demand justice and transparency through reinstated inquests, which the government has yet to provide.
The British government hopes Ireland will drop its legal challenge, but Amnesty International stresses the importance of standing with victims until the Legacy Act is completely replaced. Victims refuse to cooperate with new British government arrangements until justice is served.