Pa Daly (Kerry, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Deputy Haughey made reference to the Kerry Babies case and to the apology that was given after 40 years. However, the apology was worded so that it was unclear exactly what the State was apologising for. Questions still remain to be answered. It has never been explained how five of the same statements which dovetailed were made in five different rooms about an event that science deems could not possibly be true.

The family of Captain James Kelly has been waiting for an apology for more than 50 years. Their attempts to secure an apology from the Government have been met with obfuscation and an unwillingness to engage, similar to what happened to the families of the victims of the Stardust fire. The time is now for a full apology for Captain Kelly and for formal recognition that he was acting under orders.

We need to see a sea change for those who are treated poorly by the State.

People should not have to be in court or marching for justice where a wrong has been committed. That is self-evident and it is high time it was recognised.

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