Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Bradley sorry to victims’ relatives
SOS in U-turn on ‘odious’ remarks
KAREN Bradley yesterday issued an apology for “deeply insensitive” comments she made about Troubles killings.
The Secretary of State sparked widespread criticism after describing the behaviour of security forces in the conflict as “dignified and appropriate”.
She told the Commons on Wednesday: “Over 90% of the killings during the Troubles were at the hands of terrorists, every single one of those was a crime.
“The fewer than 10% that were at the hands of the military and police were not crimes.
“They were people acting under orders and under instruction and fulfilling their duty in a dignified and appropriate way.”
Mark Thompson of Relatives for Justice branded her comments “odious and reprehensible”.
But yesterday Mrs Bradley, referring to her remarks on Wednesday, said: “I want to apologise. I am profoundly sorry for the offence and hurt that my words have caused. The language was wrong and even though this was not my intention, it was deeply insensitive to many of those who lost loved ones.
“I know from those families that I have met personally just how raw their pain is and I completely understand why they want to see justice properly delivered. I share that aim SECRETARY of State Karen Bradley has to “resign” or “be sacked”, Nuala O’loan insisted yesterday.
Baroness O’loan, who was Police Ombudsman from 1999 until 2007, said: and that is why I launched the public consultation on addressing the legacy of the Troubles.
“My position and the position of this Government is clear. We believe fundamentally in the rule of law. Where there is any evidence of wrongdoing this should be pursued without fear or favour whoever the perpetrators might be.”
Alliance leader Naomi Long responded: “The role of Secretary of State is to defend the rule of law and independence of the justice system.
“The onus is now on Karen Bradley to demonstrate she is capable of living up to that.”
In the Dail, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar described Mrs Bradley’s initial comments as “insensitive and wrong”.
Fianna Fail deputy leader Dara Calleary said yesterday’s statement “does not go far enough because it is digging again and ignores so many other things”. “Despite the fact she apologised, the fact remains her comments display a complete lack of understanding of Northern Ireland and complete contempt for the suffering of its people.”