SDLP Policing Board member Dolores Kelly has welcomed a Supreme Court ruling that the PSNI was wrong not to investigate the case of the hooded men.

The court said a 2014 decision by the PSNI not to investigate the case was “irrational”.

Mrs Kelly said there must now be a full independent investigation into allegations of torture brought forward by the men.

Upper Bann MLA Mrs Kelly said:

“Today’s verdict was another step forward for the hooded men as they continue their long battle for justice. Despite it being widely acknowledged that these men went through a horrendous experience, they have been met with opposition at every turn in their attempt to have a full investigation carried out.

“There are serious lessons for the PSNI to learn from this judgement. Their decision not to launch a full investigation has been criticised by the court and they must ensure that they take this on board and use it to shape their decision making going forward so we don’t see a repeat of this case.

“We must now see a full independent investigation into what happened to the hooded men in 1971. This case and the Miami Showband settlement earlier this week shows that despite the best efforts of the British government to break the will and thirst for justice and accountability within victims with their shameful legacy proposals, they will continue fighting until the very end.

“No matter how long it takes, no matter how many courts or hearings they have to go through, while hope remains, victims will continue to campaign. No matter what obstacles are put in front of them, they will never give up on truth and justice and the SDLP will always stand fully behind them.”