The Government is “fully committed” to uncovering the truth for victims of the Dublin-Monaghan bombing, Simon Harris has said. 

Today marks 49 years since four bombs exploded in Dublin and Monaghan, killing 33 people in the deadliest massacre of The Troubles. 

No one has ever been charged but the UVF admitted it was behind the atrocity in 1993 and victims have long suspected they did so in collusion with the British state. 

“The Government is fully committed to seeking out the truth behind those events and, hopefully, to secure some measure of comfort for the victims’ families and the survivors,” the interim Justice Minister said. 

“Twenty-five years on from the Good Friday Agreement, it is important that we remember what has been achieved since 1998, but also challenge ourselves to take up the crucial work of reconciliation. 

“Last week I met with the families of another group of victims of The Troubles, The Disappeared, victims of paramilitary violence who were murdered and secretly buried during The Troubles. 

“So many on this island have been affected by the multitude of horrific acts that were carried out during The Troubles and the Irish Government will not forget our duty to victims and survivors.”

G6YN1Y Dublin and Monaghan bombings Memorial

An inquiry into the allegations of collusion is currently being carried out by a former British policeman.

Margaret Urwin from the Justice for the Forgotten group hopes it will be completed soon. 

“He began in December, I think it was, 2019,” she said. 

“So, he’s well on the way to having that complete; he’s hoping to have a report out in time for the 50th anniversary of Dublin-Monaghan - which will be of course next year. 

“So, the only problem we see with that is the British Legacy Bill [that provides an amnesty to those who committed crimes during The Troubles].” 

At 12 noon, a service of remembrance will take place by the memorial on Dublin’s Talbot Street and wreaths will be laid by Tánaiste Micheál Martin, the Lord Mayor of Dublin and the Cathaoirleach of Monaghan County Council.

Main image: Micheál Martin lays a wreath in Talbot Street Dublin during a ceremony marking the 48th anniversary of the Dublin and Monaghan bombings. Picture date: Tuesday May 17, 2022.