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Government agrees Omagh probe disclosure terms

The Minister for Justice has signed a memorandum of understanding with the chair of the independent inquiry into the 1998 Omagh bombing set up by the British Government. 

The inquiry, which is being chaired by Lord Alan Turnbull, is investigating whether the bombing could have been prevented by British state authorities. 

The Government approved Minister Jim O’Callaghan’s signature at its meeting earlier today (15 April). The document covers issues linked to the disclosure of materials to the inquiry.

The Department of Justice says that the agreement reflects a Government decision in July 2024 to assist the inquiry “to the extent that is permissible under the Constitution and laws of the State”. 

‘Lawful disclosure’ 

The memorandum says that the Government’s provision of assistance is “solely within the grant of the Government of Ireland” and subject to Irish law, citing the protection of citizens’ rights and “the legitimate interests of the State”. 

It sets out the working arrangements that will apply between the inquiry and the minister on the lawful disclosure of materials from Government departments and their agencies to the inquiry. 

The department adds that the agreement also addresses “the onward disclosure of those materials and their destruction or retention at the conclusion of the work of the inquiry”. 

A central point of contact has been set up in the Department of Justice to receive and manage all requests for materials from the probe. 

Oral testimony 

The Government says that the minister will continue to engage with the inquiry “to find solutions consistent with Irish law” to fulfil the Government’s commitment to assisting it. 

According to a statement, this includes the giving of oral testimony for the purposes of the inquiry. The Government also says that, if necessary, it will bring forward legislation to support its assistance to the probe. 

“The agreement provides transparency in relation to how the Government will fulfil its commitment and provides a clear framework to guide departments and their agencies who may hold materials potentially relevant to the work of the inquiry,” Minister O’Callaghan stated. 

“The need for any further action to be taken by the Government in the course of, or following the conclusion of, the inquiry will be kept under review,” he added.