King’s speech: Pledge to repeal NI Troubles legacy act

The government has repeated its pledge to repeal the controversial Troubles Legacy Act in the King’s Speech.

It is among the Labour Party’s legislative plans which have been outlined during the State Opening of Parliament.

The Legacy Act introduced a ban on inquests and civil actions related to incidents during the conflict in Northern Ireland known as the Troubles.

It also sought to offer a conditional amnesty for people suspected of Troubles-related crimes in exchange for co-operating with a new information recovery body.

This element was disapplied after a court ruled it breached human rights, following legal action by bereaved families.

In his speech, King Charles said: “In consultation with all parties, measures will be brought forward to begin the process of repealing and replacing the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023.”

It followed the Labour Party pledging in its manifesto for the general election on 4 July to “repeal and replace” the legislation.

Under Labour’s plans, the government is expected to remove the conditional immunity provisions.

It also plans to reverse the ban on civil claims and allow Troubles-era inquests halted prematurely to resume.

But it does not intend to repeal the act in its entirety without first having a replacement in mind.

The government plans to “explore options to strengthen the independence” of the new body set up under the legislation, the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information (ICRIR).

It intends to consult with Stormont parties, the Irish government and communities in Northern Ireland on a way forward.