Ireland to launch a legal challenge against the UK government over Troubles amnesty bill

By SYLVIA HUI
Associated Press

LONDON (AP) — Ireland’s government says it is taking legal action against British authorities over a controversial law that gives some immunity from prosecution for offenses committed during three decades of sectarian violence in Northern Ireland. Deputy Prime Minister Micheál Martin said on Wednesday that “after much thought and careful consideration,” the Irish government is launching a legal challenge against the Legacy and Reconciliation Bill. Critics say the legislation shut down access to justice for victims and survivors of “the Troubles” — the three decades of violence in which more than 3,500 people died. The law was passed in September despite strong opposition from political parties and victims’ organizations in Northern Ireland.