First hearing for Omagh bomb inquiry begins

The first hearing for the public inquiry into the Omagh bombing has begun.

The Real IRA attack on 15 August 1998 killed 29 people and injured more than 200 and was the biggest single attack of the Troubles. The attack came after the signing of the Good Friday Agreement.

No one has ever been convicted for the attack, however some have been found liable for the attack in a civil case.

The inquiry will investigate whether anything could have been done to prevent the attack, however it will not look to identify and responsible individuals. The independent statutory public inquiry, was established by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. It formally began in February 2024 when the Government issued its Terms of Reference.

The hearing will see chair Lord Alan Turnbull set out the direction of the inquiry in what is being billed as a preliminary session to deal with procedural issues.

Survivors and bereaved families are expected to attend the hearing at Strule Arts Centre in Omagh.

No evidence will be heard until next year, nor will any witnesses be called.