Irish America backs Finucanes in their campaign for an independent inquiry

24.8.2008

Monday, 18 August, 2008

Irish America backs Finucanes in their campaign for an independent inquiry

By Belfast Media / Andersonstown News

The Irish American Unity Conference is to organise a fundraising effort through its website to support the 20th anniversary tribute to Pat Finucane planned by the Finucane family for February 2009 in Dublin.

IAUC National President Kate McCabe met with Séamus Finucane in Belfast earlier this year to discuss ways that Irish America could continue to support the Finucanes in their effort to secure an independent, international public inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the West Belfast solicitor’s 1989 murder.

“Though we were pleased to participate in the passage of the 2007 Congressional Resolution in support of an independent inquiry, we recognise that the British government remains as intransigent as ever,” Kate McCabe said.

“I met with Séamus to discuss other ways we might continue to highlight the Finucane case, because Irish Americans are committed to seeing this effort through to the very end.

“February's event will be a tremendous opportunity not only to highlight the unresolved issue of the Finucane inquiry, but also to commemorate the life and legacy of a man who continues to inspire people to continue to fight for human rights and social justice around the world,

“The IAUC is excited to work with the Finucane family to raise money and build support in the United States for this important event.”

Pat’s son John said: “For 20 years we have fought to expose the truth surrounding not just my father's death but the extent to which the British state was involved in the murder of hundreds, perhaps thousands, of individuals.

“Our search for the truth would not have been possible except for the enormous support from many groups and individuals around the world, most notably in America.

“Next February my family is holding an international event in Dublin to pay tribute to my father's legal work representing and fighting for human rights. We plan to celebrate his innovative and courageous use of the law, and also to highlight the British government's continued refusal to admit its role in his killing.

“We again ask for your support to help us stage this event, and would be grateful if you could contribute whatever you can to the Pat Finucane Fund. On behalf of my family we wish all of our supporters our most sincere thanks and gratitude for your continuing support,” added John.

John Finucane will be a featured speaker at the IAUC's 25th anniversary conference to be held this October (3rd to 5th) in Walnut Creek, California. He will discuss ongoing efforts to secure an independent public inquiry and will highlight his family's efforts to organise an international commemorative event in celebration of his father's life and legacy.

Donations in any amount and statements of support may be made through the website at www.iauc.org/finucanefund. All funds raised will go directly to the Pat Finucane Fund, and donors may contribute as individuals or using any organisational affiliation.