UPDATE: The Chief Constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), Jon Boutcher, has just announced that the UK Government has failed to accept “fiscal responsibility” for addressing the legacy of the Troubles. This urgent statement was made during a recent session of the Policing Board, drawing immediate attention to critical funding shortages that could hinder justice for victims’ families.
Boutcher’s comments reflect deep concerns as the PSNI struggles with a growing backlog of legacy-related cases, including over 1,100 Troubles-related civil cases and nearly 200 murders that fall outside current legacy legislation. The Chief Constable expressed disbelief that victims’ families might view the lack of funding as a “deliberate” attempt to stall progress in the long-awaited legacy framework.
In September 2023, both the UK and Irish governments proposed a new Legacy Commission to investigate deaths during the Troubles and an Independent Commission for Information Retrieval (ICIR) aimed at providing answers to victims’ families. However, Boutcher emphasized that for this framework to be effective, dedicated funding from Westminster is essential. He stated, “If the recently announced legacy framework is to succeed, it must be supported through additional, dedicated funding.”
The financial strain is evident, with the ongoing costs of servicing legacy cases estimated at £24 million annually. Boutcher pointed out that this figure is expected to rise significantly without proper support. The Chief Constable also highlighted the financial pressures stemming from major inquiries, such as the Omagh Inquiry, currently estimated to cost £15 million, and the Finucane Inquiry, projected to exceed £20 million.
“This lack of planning means that legacy families are still being failed,” Boutcher stated, underscoring the emotional toll on communities that have endured decades of unresolved trauma. He added, “The strain on our budget means society has less policing today and is less safe than it should be.”
The Chief Constable’s remarks have sparked renewed calls for government action to ensure that victims’ families receive the justice they deserve. As the situation develops, it remains crucial for the UK Government to respond swiftly to Boutcher’s urgent plea for adequate funding.
With the legacy framework now under threat due to financial inadequacies, the question remains: when will those in power begin to listen and act? The need for immediate support is essential to avoid further delays and frustrations for the families waiting for answers.
Stay tuned for more updates on this critical issue as it unfolds.
