Murder of Patrick Finucane Independent Inquiry
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, with reference to his written statement of 9 March 2026 and the linked Terms of Reference for the Patrick Finucane Inquiry, when he will set out an updated timeframe for the publication of the referenced plan, timeline and budget.
Answered by Northern Ireland Office
Following the publication of its terms of reference in March 2026, The Patrick Finucane Inquiry has been legally established. It held its preliminary hearing in June 2026, with a further hearing scheduled in September.
The Inquiry is an independent statutory public inquiry, established under the Inquiries Act 2005 to complete an Article 2 ECHR compliant investigation into the murder of Patrick Finucane. As the sponsoring department, my officials continue to work closely with the Inquiry whilst ensuring its independence is maintained. The Inquiry is still in its early stages and further work is required before detailed plans can be published. The Chair has been clear that the Inquiry will be rigorous, and will work as quickly and effectively as possible .
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