Omagh Bomb Victims' Families Criticize Inquiry Delays, Lack of Support

Families of victims from the Omagh bombing, which occurred in 1998, have expressed frustration over the lack of action by previous Northern Ireland secretaries of state regarding a public inquiry into the tragedy. Stanley McCombe, who lost his wife, highlighted that none of the 13 secretaries in office since the bombing agreed to hold an inquiry until Chris Heaton-Harris, the 14th secretary, granted their request after an extensive judicial review process. During the inquiry, Michael Gallagher recounted a past meeting where a former secretary of state fell asleep, emphasizing the indifference shown by officials. Gallagher praised Heaton-Harris for his different approach and commitment to the victims' families, contrasting it with the dismissive attitudes they faced previously. The inquiry aims to determine if the bombing could have been prevented by UK authorities, with families seeking accountability for the devastating attack that killed 29 people. The testimonies reflect a deep desire for justice and recognition of the victims' suffering.