Inquiry Launched into Omagh Bombing Aftermath
- The public inquiry into the 1998 Omagh car bombing commenced with a moment of silence, acknowledging the victims.
- This bombing is regarded as one of the most devastating atrocities during the Northern Ireland Troubles.
- The inquiry was initiated after decades of campaigning by victims' families seeking justice.
Chairman Lord Alan Turnbull is set to outline the scope of an inquiry aimed at determining whether British and Irish intelligence agencies could have prevented the Real IRA's devastating attack in Omagh, which occurred just four months after the Good Friday peace agreement. The inquiry will not seek to identify those responsible for the bombing, a decision complicated by a recent court ruling that deemed legislation granting immunity to informants during the Troubles as a violation of survivors' human rights. Michael Gallagher, a bereaved parent who lost his 21-year-old son in the bombing, expressed hope that the inquiry marks a significant step towards closure for families affected by the tragedy. He emphasized the exhaustion felt by those seeking justice, highlighting the emotional toll of the ongoing struggle for accountability. The Irish government is involved in the inquiry due to the cross-border nature of the attack, as the Real IRA operated from the Irish Republic. While Dublin has pledged to assist, it has consistently rejected calls for a joint investigation or an independent inquiry of its own. This stance has drawn criticism from Northern Ireland's Ulster Unionist assembly member Doug Beattie, who stressed the need for the Irish government to take responsibility for its role in the events leading to the bombing. Inquiry barrister Paul Greaney KC expressed gratitude for the Irish government's commitment to assist, indicating that discussions are underway to establish a formal agreement ensuring the inquiry has access to relevant materials and the ability to call witnesses.