Ireland and UK Unite on New Legislation to Address Troubles Legacy, Empower Victims' Voices
October 14, 2025
Ireland has developed new legislation in collaboration with the government to address Troubles legacy issues, including restructuring the investigative body into the Legacy Commission and lifting bans on civil cases and inquests related to the Troubles.
The Irish government plans to revisit a legal case against the UK under the European Convention on Human Rights once the UK enacts its own legislation, which is expected in 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to address the Troubles legacy.
The legislation aims to fulfill the final commitments of the Good Friday Agreement by providing families with answers and addressing concerns from veterans about previous legacy processes.
In the UK, the new bill incorporates necessary legislative actions to implement the agreed framework for addressing Troubles legacy issues, emphasizing accountability and transparency in investigations.
The UK legislation includes provisions to protect witnesses, such as remote testimony, and aims to prevent compensation claims against former detainees like Gerry Adams, whose detention was later ruled unlawful.
The legislation also seeks to block compensation claims for detainees like Gerry Adams and remove immunity provisions from the Legacy Act, ensuring accountability.
Measures are included to safeguard military veterans from legacy processes, including remote testimony options and protections against compensation claims for unlawful detention.
Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn emphasized that families bereaved during the Troubles will ultimately judge the effectiveness of the new UK legislation and highlighted the importance of victim support.
Benn also stressed that the legislation is a response to the long-standing impasse on legacy issues and that victims' support is crucial for its success.
During the Bill's presentation, parliament was informed that families affected by the Troubles will have the final say in assessing the legislation's effectiveness in addressing the conflict's legacy.
Summary based on 10 sources
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Sources

Oxford Mail • Oct 14, 2025
Bereaved will judge legislation on Northern Ireland Troubles legacy, MPs told
Bucks Free Press • Oct 14, 2025
Bereaved will judge legislation on Northern Ireland Troubles legacy, MPs told
The Leader • Oct 14, 2025
Bereaved will judge legislation on Northern Ireland Troubles legacy, MPs told