The Law Society of Northern Ireland is to hold what it describes as “a major conference” later this year to discuss the British Government’s legacy bill.

Despite widespread criticism, the organisation says that the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill is likely to become law later this year.

“Lawyers in Northern Ireland will soon have to decide how to respond to this new legislation,” it said in a statement announcing plans for the conference.

Concerns

The organisation’s Human Rights and Equality Committee has raised concerns about the measure, which it says will close down all current investigations into Troubles-related cases.

The bill will also create a new independent body called the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (ICRIR), and offer immunity from prosecution for individuals who co-operate with it.

The solicitors’ body says that it opposes the denial of access to justice for victims and survivors, and considers that the bill is incompatible with article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights.

Late last year, the Council of Europe called on Britain to consider withdrawing the proposed legislation.