Allister presses Paisley over Amnesty
09 January 2008
Traditional Unionist MEP Jim Allister has called on the First Minister to say what OFMDFM, as the department with responsibility for victims, is doing to refute and oppose the monstrous suggestion of an amnesty for terrorists which is being considered by the Eames/Bradley Consultative Group.
Mr Allister has written to the First Minister as follows:-
“Dear First Minister,
With OFMDFM having responsibility for victims' issues, I write to enquire what representations OFMDFM has made to the Eames/Bradley Consultative Group lobbying against any suggestion of an amnesty for terrorists,the legitimisation of terrorism by according them the status of soldiers in a war and the idea that a revamped HET should employ ex-terrorists to aid investigations.
As you must be aware all of these suggestions are deeply offensive to innocent victims and as the department with responsibility for victims it would be a shocking dereliction of duty if OFMDFM was not vigorous in opposing these monstrous ideas. Please assure me, therefore, that OFMDFM will do so, and, if not, why not.
Yours sincerely,"
Commenting Mr Allister said, “If Ian Paisley as First Minister in the department supposed to look after victims can’t deliver for victims on this issue, then there is not much point in him holding office. Of course, he will need McGuinness’ permission to act, but, then, that is the folly and foolishness of the terms of office which he accepted.”
