Dealing with the past in Northern Ireland: Ethics, Responsibility and Positionality

Sara McDowell, Joanne Murphy

Research output: Contribution to conferenceAbstract

Abstract

This paper reflects on a project that examined the ramifications of the introduction of a piece of legislation designed to deal with the legacy of the Northern Ireland Troubles-the 2023 Northern Ireland Troubles and Reconciliation Act (the Legacy Act). This act was introduced by the former Conservative government and sought to draw a line under legal mechanisms to hold those responsible for Troubles-related crimes to account. Under its terms, prosecutions, inquests, public inquiries and civil cases would end. It was hugely controversial and widely rejected. Our project engaged with multiple stakeholders from victims and survivor groups to civil society organisations and the police. As scholars born in Northern Ireland and working on peace and conflict- related issues, our role in the process had to be carefully navigated. This paper discusses some of the issues we faced throughout our interactions and thinks about issues of resilience, ethical engagement, positionality and responsibility.
Original languageEnglish
Publication statusUnpublished - 10 Oct 2024
EventRadical Positions Symposium - University of Coventry, Coventry, United Kingdom
Duration: 10 Oct 202410 Jan 2025

Conference

ConferenceRadical Positions Symposium
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityCoventry
Period10/10/2410/01/25

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