The UK Labour government, which took office in July 2024, has committed to repealing and replacing controversial provisions of the Legacy Act introduced by the previous Conservative government.

UK Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Hilary Benn, acknowledged the need to repeal the Legacy Act, which has been deemed unlawful in certain respects, and is working towards arrangements that can provide answers for families affected by the Troubles.

Benn expressed a desire to create arrangements that gain widespread support while addressing the needs of families seeking answers.

The UK and Irish governments are working collaboratively to establish a revised framework for addressing the legacy of the Troubles, as stated by Ireland's deputy premier Simon Harris.

Harris is collaborating with Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn to potentially deliver a joint framework agreement in the coming weeks following meetings with political leaders in Belfast.

The Legacy Act faced opposition from all major political parties in Northern Ireland, the Irish government, and many victims' advocacy groups.

The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 has halted numerous civil cases and inquests into Troubles-related deaths and offers conditional immunity to certain perpetrators.

In 2023, the Irish government initiated a legal case against the UK in the European Court of Human Rights, alleging the Legacy Act violated the European Convention on Human Rights.

Harris noted the Irish government's reluctance to pursue legal action against the UK, emphasizing that it was a last resort after exhausting all other diplomatic channels.

Any potential agreement on a new framework could influence the decision to withdraw the interstate case against the UK, depending on the government's legislative actions.

Harris emphasized the importance of finding a way forward for victims and their families, acknowledging the sensitive nature of legacy issues.

Benn affirmed the UK government's commitment to finding a resolution and acknowledged the need for arrangements that satisfy the families affected by the Troubles.