3 April 2025

SDLP Mid Ulster MLA Patsy McGlone has urged the UK Government to end their objections to a public inquiry into the murder of Sean Brown.

The Court of Appeal ruled the government’s refusal to hold an inquiry unlawful on Thursday.

Mr McGlone said it was disgraceful that the Brown family had faced so many obstacles in their battle for truth.

He attended court with SDLP Newry & Armagh MLA Justin McNulty to support the family.

Mid Ulster MLA Mr McGlone said:

“I cannot begin to imagine what the family of Sean Brown are feeling today. For nearly three decades they have been fighting for a public inquiry into the murder of their beloved husband and father and every time it has seemed like their journey was nearing its end, another unjustifiable obstacle has been thrown in their way.

“People in Mid Ulster, the North and throughout this island have stood with the Brown family during this long process and today we share their hope at this ruling. Nobody should have to go through decades of torment to seek truth about the murder of their loved one and those responsible for dragging this case out stand in stark contrast to the dignity of the Brown family today.

“Sean Brown was a decent and respected man who lived for his family and his local community. To this day questions remain about the events that led to his callous murder and the failures that followed. The judges today were clear – this investigation must go ahead and I would urge the UK Government to end any objection and give this family what they deserve – the truth.”