Finucane Relatives Call on US to Guarantee ‘Credible’ UK Investigation

The family of Pat Finucane has appealed to Washington to assist in ensuring the UK government establishes a “credible” public inquiry into his killing. They presented their case during a hearing at the United States Congress. In September, the UK government announced its intention to launch an investigation into the solicitor’s assassination, which occurred at his Belfast residence in 1989. His shooting by the Ulster Defence Association (UDA) involved collaboration with state agents. Mr. Finucane’s son, John, who serves as the Sinn Féin MP for north Belfast, informed the hearing that they have made “no further on” progress regarding the specifics of the inquiry. He added: “This is not necessarily something we would criticise.” “We want to see that everyone is committed to doing this correctly, rather than expeditiously.” The family proposed that the inquiry be led by a panel comprising three judges. Finucane continued: “The focus must now be on ensuring this process is credible, transparent and capable of gaining the trust and endorsement of those who have recognised its need.” “We want an inquiry to be independent from government and free to make its own determinations and recommendations.” “Terms of reference are critical.” He stated that the family looks forward to engaging with both the government and the inquiry regarding these terms. “They will be crucial in determining from the outset the inquiry’s ability to examine all of the circumstances leading up to, and following, my father’s murder,” he further remarked. The MP and other family members participated in a session of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission. Its co-chair, Congressman Christopher H. Smith, expressed his “hope” that the inquiry would deliver. “Let it be transparent. Let it be completely the truth,” he added. Pat Finucane was a prominent defence solicitor who frequently represented high-profile IRA members. He also provided legal services to loyalists during his career. In February 1989, he was shot 14 times by two assailants. His wife, Geraldine, also sustained injuries. One of his sons is John Finucane, the Belfast North MP for Sinn Féin. During an inquest into his death, police denied allegations that Mr. Finucane was affiliated with the IRA. In 2012, Sir Desmond’s report on the murder concluded that there was agent involvement and that police failed to act on intelligence concerning threats to Mr. Finucane.