Critics, including Stormont's Emma Little-Pengelly and DUP MLA Diane Dodds, have strongly criticized the UK Government's approach to handling legacy issues in Northern Ireland, describing it as 'shambolic', 'opaque', and lacking victim involvement.

Little-Pengelly emphasized the need for the UK to better address legacy, economy, immigration, and internal barriers, while also condemning the process for not involving victims and for its overall mishandling.

Diane Dodds accused Mr. Benn of 'running to Dublin' and criticized Ireland for not acknowledging its role in past conflicts or cooperating with inquiries like the Omagh Bombing Inquiry.

There is a widespread perception that justice remains unserved for victims killed south of the Irish border, including individuals such as Ian Sproule and the Hanna family.

Mr. Benn indicated he is close to announcing a new agreement with the Irish Government on legacy issues, with the Labour Government committed to repealing the controversial Legacy Act of the previous administration.

The Labour Government has pledged to 'repeal and replace' the legacy legislation, signaling a significant shift in how legacy cases will be addressed moving forward.

Little-Pengelly condemned the glorification of terrorism and called for a strong police response, criticizing First Minister Michelle O’Neill's attendance at republican memorial events.

The discussion highlighted ongoing frustrations about justice for victims, transparency in the process, and political disagreements, especially regarding engagement with Ireland and addressing terrorism-related issues.