Social Democratic and Labour Party Leader Colum Eastwood MP has said that the failure to comprehensively deal with the legacy of conflict has left deep scars that will continue to affect people and politics across these islands unless it is addressed by political leaders.

Speaking after meeting victims and survivors at Westminster today, Colum Eastwood MP said:

“The failure to address the legacy of conflict in Ireland and Britain has had a devastating and lasting impact on families who have lost loved ones. The transgenerational trauma which has affected people and infected our politics has been fuelled by political cowardice. We need to deliver on the endless promises to secure truth, justice and accountability for victims and survivors.

“My thoughts today are with the family of John Pat Cunningham. A vulnerable man, unarmed and posing no threat to anyone, who was cruelly and needlessly shot and killed. Their campaign for justice and accountability has been arduous and I am so sorry they have not been able to get the closure they need and deserve.

“I also want to acknowledge the family of Denis Hutchings who have suffered the loss of a loved one. They, too, are grieving today.

“The failure of politicians to decisively address legacy has contributed to the pain that everyone feels on days like today. There is no victory for anyone in any of this. It is incumbent on all of us to find a better way.”