7 May 2026
SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP has called on the British and Irish Governments to prioritise the needs of victims and survivors instead of further court battles on delivering legacy mechanisms.
The SDLP said the judgement underlines the continuing challenges surrounding disclosure, victim participation, and compliance with Articles 2 and 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights.
While acknowledging that some may interpret today’s ruling as an opportunity to limit disclosure, avoid accountability, or disregard the needs of victims and survivors, the party stressed that the judgement should instead act as a catalyst for meaningful reform in how society addresses the legacy of the past.
Commenting on the ruling, Claire Hanna MP said:
“Today’s judgement does not remove the concerns consistently raised by victims and survivors, particularly around disclosure. The SDLP has been clear that until these issues are properly addressed, any new legacy mechanism will continue to see only partial participation and will fail to command the confidence of most victims and survivors.
“The continued failure to meet victims’ needs will only force more families into lengthy court processes, as we have seen in cases such as that of Bridie Brown, with whom the SDLP continues to stand in solidarity.
“The SDLP proposed a package of measures through amendments to the Legacy Act that would better meet the needs of victims and survivors. That is why we are calling on both governments to lead a renewed process of engagement to deliver the necessary changes.”