VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Terrorism: Northern Ireland

Asked by Claire HannaSocial Democratic & Labour PartyNorthern Ireland OfficeTabled Answered 23 February 2026UIN 112909

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how many prosecutions have been taken against republican paramilitaries for troubles-related crimes.

Answered by Hilary Benn

The Government does not hold all of the specific information that has been requested.

We understand that, between 1 January 2012 and December 2024, 68 cases for potential prosecution were considered in Northern Ireland in relation to Troubles-related cases, of which, there were 25 decisions to prosecute. 13 of these decisions relate to cases that fall within the republican category, 6 within the loyalist category, and 6 within the military category.

Where decisions have been taken to prosecute in Northern Ireland, there have been 6 convictions; 3 in the republican category, two in the loyalist category, and 1 in the military category, with that individual being given a suspended sentence.

We understand that figures relating to 1998-2012 are not available.

Information about Troubles-related prosecutions in England and Wales is a matter for the Crown Prosecution Service.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim