This is felt most acutely in homes, where an empty chair serves as a constant reminder of the loss inflicted on so many families who were plunged into despair by the actions of sectarian terrorists who offered only darkness, death, and destruction. The regularity with which I meet innocent victims reflects the depth and breadth of the scars left by terrorism, scars that remain painfully open across our country.
The Democratic Unionist Party has always been a strong voice for the innocent victims of terrorism. That is why, this week, I spoke in Westminster to express widespread revulsion at the deeply disturbing and unacceptable suggestion that, following the repeal of the Legacy Act, individuals such as Gerry Adams could be entitled to compensation for being interned. This prospect is an affront to anyone who understands Adams' background especially when you realise the grounds for such a payment would be because the wrong Minister signed the paperwork.
To entertain the idea of compensating Adams and his ilk because of an admin error is a betrayal of the most basic principles of fairness and is unconscionable. The Prime Minister must act swiftly to legislate against any such payment.
The focus must remain on meeting the needs of innocent victims. Justice, recognition, and practical support for those who suffered at the hands of terrorists should always be the Government’s priority. Yet, experience shows that determination and persistence are required to secure such support.
Our long-standing campaign for a pension for Troubles victims is a testament to this. In 2014, under the leadership of Peter Robinson, we first proposed a Government backed scheme to provide financial support for innocent victims.
Initially dismissed as impossible, this Party worked alongside victims to lobby all those who would listen. Our steadfast commitment to securing this support was clear in our 2017 and 2019 election campaigns, where we pledged to deliver financial recognition for those who had endured, and continue to endure, so much.
Despite Sinn Fein’s best efforts to stop this pension being created, we supported court action which forced Michelle O’Neill to enable the Justice Department to set up the scheme.
