Omagh Bombing Inquiry and Government of Ireland Agree MoU

The Omagh Bombing Inquiry and the Government of Ireland have today published the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which will allow the chairman and members of his team access to material held by the Government of Ireland.  

The MoU outlines the arrangements for the provision of information and materials from the Government of Ireland and its agencies to the Omagh Bombing Inquiry. A central point of contact will be established in the Department of Justice (Ireland) to handle all requests for information.  

The MoU also outlines the process of disclosure of Irish State materials to the Inquiry’s Core Participants.  

The Inquiry will continue to discuss further cooperation with the Government of Ireland, such as taking evidence from witnesses from the Republic of Ireland. 

Commenting on the agreement Secretary to the Inquiry Sam Hartley said:  

“This formal agreement between the Inquiry and the Government of Ireland marks a significant step forward in allowing the Inquiry access to material, information and assistance from the Government and agencies in Ireland.  

Agreements of this nature are not commonplace in Inquiries. On behalf of the Inquiry, I express my gratitude to the Government of Ireland for its repeated commitment to assist the Inquiry” 

Notes to editor  

• The full MoU is available here on the Inquiry Website 
• The terms of reference to the Omagh Bombing Inquiry are available on the Inquiry’s website 
• The disclosure of information to Core Participants is subject to a restriction order available on the Inquiry’s website.  
• The list of the Core Participants is available on the Inquiry’s website.