THE RESTORATION of funding for the survivors of the Dublin and Monaghan bombings of 1974 was sought yesterday at a commemoration meeting in Dublin.
Sinn Féin mayor of Monaghan town Cllr Seán Conlon said it was with great regret that he noted the Government’s decision to end funding for the Justice for the Forgotten, which organised the event.
“This is a totally unacceptable decision,” he added.
Mr Conlon said the families of those who died were shamefully neglected by the State as successive governments chose to turn the other cheek, failing in that fundamental duty of any civilised society – protecting the rights of citizens.
Addressing a gathering on Talbot Street in Dublin, Mr Conlon said: “Nothing was done to pursue the investigation which was closed down within weeks of the atrocity.
“Nothing was done to challenge the British government which, through collusion, bore ultimate responsibility for these deaths. Nothing was done to assist the families in their great need.”
Praising Justice for the Forgotten, Mr Conlon said: “You maintained the pressure and ensured that the tragedy was finally recognised for what it was by the Government and by the Oireachtas.
“Your primary demand for a public inquiry was not acceded to as it should have been, but despite the setback, the investigations commissioned by the Oireachtas were significant and served to keep the spotlight on the tragedy and its consequences for families.”
Mr Conlon accused Taoiseach Brian Cowen of demonstrating little interest and less activity in “this key legacy issue of the conflict”.
This was the biggest loss of life, he added, during the conflict.
“This tragedy and related attacks involving collusion were the most direct experience of the conflict by people in the 26 counties,” he added.
“Survivors and victims on all sides need to be central to the ongoing development of the peace process and to the establishment of truth and justice. The British government bears direct responsibility.’’
Lord Mayor of Dublin Emer Costello said there were many victims of the Troubles in the North. She added that Justice for the Forgotten had worked on behalf of all of the victims and relatives of those who had suffered.
“Justice for the Forgotten have achieved much during their time in existence,” she added.
Ms Costello said that the group had done incredibly valuable work on behalf of all of those who had been affected by the Troubles.
