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European Remembrance Day for Victims of Terrorism 2025-03-11

11 March 2025

Lead MP

Gavin Robinson

Debate Type

Adjournment Debate

Tags

Northern Ireland
Other Contributors: 9

At a Glance

Gavin Robinson raised concerns about european remembrance day for victims of terrorism 2025-03-11 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Opened the debate
Today is the European Remembrance Day for Victims of Terrorism, reflecting on terror and its impact. MP Gavin Robinson highlighted the victims like Jo Cox and David Amess who were killed by extremists, emphasising the legacy in Northern Ireland that has not healed. He discussed meetings with organisations representing innocent victims, underlining their desire for truth and justice. The speech also touched upon the need for reconciliation and justice without glorifying terrorists.

Government Response

Northern Ireland
Government Response
There is no minister's response provided in this adjournment debate transcript. The debate concluded with lead MP Gavin Robinson addressing the importance of justice and reconciliation, emphasising the need for truth without glorification of terrorists. I congratulate Gavin Robinson on securing this important debate. Acts of terrorism have had a devastating impact in Northern Ireland, where over 3,000 people were killed during the troubles. The current threat from Northern Ireland-related terrorism is assessed as substantial, and I pay tribute to those who work tirelessly for our safety. In seeking to address the legacy of the troubles, we are committed to bringing forward a memorialisation strategy to support inclusive structures and initiatives. We have been working with victims and survivors to correct deficiencies in the legacy Act and introduce primary legislation that will reform and strengthen the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery. The Government was pleased that the Police Ombudsman recently returned to work following an extended period of absence. It would not be appropriate for me to comment on legal proceedings, but I understand families’ concern and frustration with publication delays. The ombudsman’s office is doing all it can to publish reports. A number of troubles-related cases have a cross-border dimension, including the Kingsmill murders. Truly holistic legacy mechanisms require co-operation between both the UK and Irish Governments. This Government considers the Irish Government an essential partner for human rights compliant processes that command public confidence across communities. The Omagh bombing inquiry’s commemorative hearings were a painful reminder of terrorist impact on families and communities. Victims do not need reminders; they live with it daily. The Secretary of State received political assurances from the Irish Government on full co-operation, though practical details are still being determined through a memorandum of understanding. Details will be provided in due course by the inquiry, which is independent. The Government remains focused on ensuring that established UK inquiries can successfully fulfill their terms of reference. We remember all those killed by terrorist acts and pay tribute to everyone carrying on despite grief. They work around gaps caused by loss, remembering people who should be here but are not. In memory of all who have died, we will keep taking action against terrorism for peace and justice.
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