Sean Brown’s family expresses disappointment over the UK government’s appeal against a public inquiry into his murder
Bellaghy: The family of Sean Brown, a murdered GAA official, is upset with the Northern Ireland Secretary’s decision to appeal a court ruling. This ruling ordered a public inquiry into his death, which happened back in May 1997.
A High Court judge made it clear that the State has a duty to investigate what happened to Sean. But now, the Northern Ireland Office has confirmed they’ve lodged an appeal against this ruling.
Sean’s family had previously urged the Secretary to follow the court’s decision, which was made last month. They feel let down by this latest move.
Bridie Brown, Sean’s widow, and the family spokesperson expressed their disappointment. They believe the timing of the appeal, filed on New Year’s Eve, seems like an attempt to bury bad news.
Sean was killed while locking up the gates at his local GAA club, and no one has been convicted for his murder. Bridie had previously challenged the Secretary’s decision not to hold an inquiry.
The family is frustrated that their mother, now approaching her 88th year, still doesn’t know the truth about Sean’s murder. They feel this is shameful and are determined to keep fighting for answers.
They also raised concerns about the involvement of the Ministry of Defence and MI5 in the case, questioning why they hold documents related to Sean’s murder.
In response, a spokesperson from the Northern Ireland Office expressed sympathy for the Brown family but mentioned that the appeal raises important constitutional issues that go beyond this case.
Local MLA Patsy McGlone criticized the appeal, calling it shameful. She emphasized that all the family wants is to find out what happened to Sean, and they shouldn’t have to endure more delays and legal battles.
It’s a tough situation for the Brown family, who just want justice for their loved one. The community stands with them, hoping for the truth to finally come to light.
