Rich Neal: “I acknowledge the decision today by the British Government to reopen the inquiry into the death of Patrick Finucane, who…”

“I acknowledge the decision today by the British Government to reopen the inquiry into the death of Patrick Finucane, who was brutally murdered in his home in front of his family in February of 1989. This high-profile murder of a human rights solicitor by loyalist gunmen connected to the British security forces was one of the most controversial and shocking events of the Troubles in the north of Ireland. Throughout my 35 years in Congress, I have been a steadfast supporter of the Finucane family and their tireless effort to get truth and justice. After years of public apologies, we are acknowledging today a state of collusion and numerous roadblocks that were set up. I welcome the British Secretary of State Hilary Benn's comments and his intention to proceed with reopening this case. Pat's wife, Geraldine, and their family are entitled to the truth in hopes that this decades-long ordeal can finally be put to rest. As co-chairman of the bipartisan Friends of Ireland Caucus, I will continue to advocate for the Finucane family as this process moves forward in our hopes that it is one more step toward peace, justice, and reconciliation on the island of Ireland. ____________________”