Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 June 2026
184. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration further to Parliamentary Question No. 501 of 20 November 2025, if he will give an update on the current position regarding an investigation into the Belturbet bombing of December 1972; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44572/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe murder of two innocent young people in Belturbet in December 1972 was an appalling act of brutality. The perpetrators of this bombing demonstrated a callous disregard for human life and it is a source of great regret that, in spite of a comprehensive investigation, it has not been possible for those responsible to be prosecuted for their crimes to date.
As the Deputy is aware, in recent years a comprehensive review of the investigation was carried out by An Garda Síochána which identified a number of lines of inquiry. In 2022, a Senior Investigating Officer was appointed to lead the investigation from the incident room at Ballyconnell Garda Station from where it continues to be coordinated. I am informed by the Garda Authorities that this investigation is ongoing and that liaison with the authorities in Northern Ireland continues in this respect. I am assured by the Garda Authorities that their work continues with the aim of bringing the perpetrators to justice.
At the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference on 30 April last, I raised the Belturbet Bombing with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and underlined the need for continued co-operation by the UK authorities with the investigation. I will continue to raise the bombing and the All-Party Motions with the British Government.
The Belturbet Bombing is one of a number of incidents that occurred in this jurisdiction which were examined by Operation Denton, part of the UK Kenova structures. It is my understanding that publication of the final Operation Denton report continues to be delayed due to legal issues. It is my hope that these issues can be resolved promptly to allow for its publication.
