DUP Reject Definition Of Victims In Legacy Proposals

The DUP has said that an innocent victim of the Troubles should not be placed in the same legal category as a terrorist bomb maker in plans to address Northern Ireland's legacy of the past.

DUP leader Arlene Foster was speaking after her party submitted a response to a public consultation regarding the legacy of the Troubles, and said they had major concerns over elements of the draft Bill proposed by the Northern Ireland Office.

"The Government’s latest proposals are being viewed through the lens of two decades of offence and outrage felt by innocent victims, and where the definition of a victim continues to be unjust and unacceptable," Ms Foster said.

The DUP believe the best opportunity of justice would be from an investigatory team with full police powers, with an end to "witch hunts" against those who acted "bravely, honourably and appropriately" during the conflict.

Ms Foster said the DUP considers the status quo as "unacceptable" with innocent victims the only group not seeing progress with investigations.

"There is a clear distinction in law between a terrorist perpetrator and their innocent victim.

"To equate the two is morally indefensible," said Ms Foster.

Sinn Fein have accused the DUP of "trying to scupper the whole legacy process" with its attempt to change the definition of a victim.

Sinn Fein MLA Linda Dillon, who is the party's spokeswomen for victims, said the DUP were trying to introduce an amnesty for British state forces and "redraw the definition in order to fit their narrative of the conflict and the past".

"There is a legal definition of a victim in place since 2006," she said.

Ms Dillon stated that everyone should be "equal under the law" and British forces should not be given any immunity.

"This would be an affront to the families of victims who are still seeking truth, justice and accountability for the death of the loved ones," she said.



(JG)