PSNI Accepts OTR Report

Chief Constable George Hamilton has said the PSNI accepts in full the recommendations laid out in a newly-published report into the 'On the Run' letters.

A review has just been completed by Lady Justice Hallett that confirmed letters sent to wanted republican terrorist suspects did not amount to an amnesty.

The review followed the collapse of the trial of a man suspected of carrying out the 1982 IRA Hyde Park Bombing. John Downey had received notice that he was not wanted by any UK police force in relation to the bombing, but this has since been declared not to be the case. Lady Justice Hallett said the letter was the result of a "catastrophic mistake" by the PSNI.

Chief Constable Hamilton said: "Police wrongly informed the prosecuting authorities that an individual was not wanted, when there was information to suggest that he was wanted by the Metropolitan Police. On that basis the prosecution for the Hyde Park bombing failed.

"With the publication of today’s report, I want to reiterate PSNI’s apology for the additional pain the families have had to endure as a result the failure to secure justice for their loved ones. My colleague, Assistant Chief Constable Drew Harris, has also met with the families in person to express our sincere regret."

But the Chief Constable also commented: "For any of us reflecting today on Lady Hallett’s report, the victims of the Hyde Park bomb, Lieutenant Anthony Daly, Trooper Simon Tipper, Lance Corporal Jeffrey Young, and Corporal Roy Bright, must be at the forefront of our minds. Their families, like so many others, have endured unbearable pain and suffering. All of those hurt by our past remain in our thoughts today.

"As Chief Constable, I want to ensure the PSNI fulfils our legal responsibilities in relation to the dealing with the past, to the best of our ability, and in the professional manner that victims deserve. I must do this with due regard for the demands of keeping people safe in the present day. But dealing with the past goes far beyond policing. We will continue to play our part, and we will work with those who have authority and influence to build a more holistic approach to dealing with the past."

(IT/MH)