Statement by Bertie Ahern on the Police Ombudsman's Report on the Circumstances Surrounding the Death of Raymond McCord junior and Related Matters, (22 January 2007)

Statement by Bertie Ahern, then Taoiseach (Irish Prime Minister), on the Police Ombudsman's Report on the Circumstances Surrounding the Death of Raymond McCord junior and Related Matters, (22 January 2007)

Ombudsman's Report: Deeply Disturbing and of the Utmost Gravity

"While much has changed for the better in recent years, today's Ombudsman's Report is deeply disturbing.

Its findings are of the utmost gravity. It paints a picture of despicable past behaviour.

The Government will study the detail in this report carefully and will discuss the matter further with the British Government.

Over many years, successive Irish governments, and many others, raised serious concerns about collusion in Northern Ireland. This Report demonstrates that these concerns were well-founded. It presents clear evidence that the RUC colluded with Loyalist murderers and failed in their duty to prevent many horrific crimes.

Behind this Report lie many personal stories of lives lost and lives shattered. I wish to express my sympathy to the families of the victims at this distressing time. I met Raymond McCord Snr in recent months. I applaud his single-minded determination and courage which helped ensure that the truth would be told and these grievous failures brought to light in a comprehensive and detailed way.

It is essential that justice be done, and be seen to be done, in these cases. In the face of such a damning Report follow-up action and reassurance is essential.

Today's Report shows why police reform was so essential in Northern Ireland. All fair-minded people will acknowledge the reforms that have taken place in recent years which have made a real and visible difference to policing in Northern Ireland.

I commend the Police Ombudsman for her tenacity and determination. Her Report shows that the Patten accountability and oversight mechanisms are robust and do work. This has to remain a vital part of the reformed policing arrangements in Northern Ireland.

Inclusive support by all for reformed policing in Northern Ireland has to be the way of the future. I hope that such inclusive support for policing can become a reality following the Sinn Fein Ard Fheis next weekend."