Separately to the AOH, though very much on the same page, the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians has expressed its opposition to the British government's legacy bill currently before parliament.
The LAOH has expressed its opposition in a statement.
Said the statement: "The Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, Inc. joins with victim’s groups, international human rights groups, and all parties on the island of Ireland in opposition to the Northern Ireland Legacy Justice Bill.
"This bill which was pushed forward without regard for human rights or victims’ rights will close the door on inquests and other mechanisms of justice for victims and survivors and grant amnesty for those accused of killing or seriously injuring victims.
"We stand firmly with victims and survivors who are patiently awaiting coroner inquests, ombudsman investigations and other legal avenues to uncover the truth.
"The Good Friday Agreement asserts their right to seek justice, and the Stormont House Agreement set forth those steps to get the truth. This bill effectively removes all rights and access to justice for victims, further victimizing survivors while exonerating those responsible for the crimes.
"This week, Micheál Martin, Ireland’s Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defense stated 'We have fundamental concerns about the legislation currently before parliament. We don't believe it is compliant with the European Convention on Human Rights.'
"We applaud the position of the Irish Government as they stand beside these families in opposition and we take solace in knowing that should the legislation pass, Ireland can bring a case to the European Court of Human Rights.
"We call on the British government to listen to those opposed to this bill, the human rights groups, civic leaders and most importantly, the victims and survivors who were affected from all sides of the conflict who have called for the legislation to be scrapped."
