Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill has written to the British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, urging his government to grant a public inquiry into the murder of a leading GAA official.
It comes after a judgement in the Court of Appeal in Belfast where Lady Chief Justice Keegan said “the decision to refuse a public inquiry cannot stand and is unlawful and in breach of Article 2 obligations."
Sean Brown, 61, was shot dead after he was beaten and abducted by loyalists in 1997 as he closed the gates of Wolfe Tones GAC in Bellaghy, County Derry.
In February last year it emerged that more than 25 people, including British state agents, were linked to the sectarian murder, which no one has ever been convicted of.
Speaking outside court after the latest judgement, Sean’s wife, Bridie, addressed Secretary of State Hilary Benn directly: “Five judges have told you what to do. Do the right thing and please don’t have me going to London.”
“Last week, outside court, Bridie Brown made a direct plea to the British government, and I want to echo her powerful and emotional words,” said Michelle O’Neill.
“The Brown family has waited far too long for truth, justice and accountability. They should not have to endure the indignity and insult of further delays or legal appeals.
"I have written to the British Prime Minister, imploring him and his government to accept the unequivocal High Court ruling and grant a public inquiry without any further delay.
"Anything less would only further compound the grief and trauma of the Brown family, who — despite the passage of nearly 28 years — have not given up their courageous and dignified battle for justice.
“There can be no more cynical moves or obstructionist tactics by the British government. It’s time to hold a public inquiry, and at last establish the full truth around Sean Brown’s murder.
"As Bridie Brown said, five judges have told the British government to do the right thing. That is what the Brown family deserves.”
