Omagh Bombing Inquiry reaches agreement with Irish Government

The Irish Government has reached an agreement with the Omagh Bombing Inquiry over cooperation.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will allow the chairman and members of his team access to material held by the Government of Ireland.  

The MoU sets out the arrangements for the provision of information and materials from the Government of Ireland and its agencies to the Omagh Bombing Inquiry.

A central point of contact will be established in the Department of Justice (Ireland) to handle all requests for information.  

Secretary to the Inquiry Sam Hartley said: “This formal agreement between the Inquiry and the Government of Ireland marks a significant step forward in allowing the Inquiry access to material, information and assistance from the Government and agencies in Ireland.  

"Agreements of this nature are not commonplace in Inquiries. On behalf of the Inquiry, I express my gratitude to the Government of Ireland for its repeated commitment to assist the Inquiry”

Secretary of state for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn, said: "I welcome the Irish Government’s commitment to co-operate with the Omagh Bombing Inquiry through this memorandum of understanding.

"This is a very positive step that will help enable the independent Inquiry to do its job and provide answers for families.

"The Omagh bombing was a heinous atrocity committed by the Real IRA at a time when communities in Northern Ireland were looking forward to peace and stability.

"It caused immense pain and suffering to the many families who lost loved ones and to those who were injured. They will always be in our thoughts."