SDLP Mid Ulster MLA Patsy McGlone has slammed the disgraceful treatment of the family of Sean Brown.
The family detailed their hurt on Thursday after the PSNI said that an inquest would not be an “appropriate vehicle” for an investigation into his death.
Mr Brown was abducted and murdered by the LVF in 1997, with his family fighting for truth and justice in the intervening years.
Mid Ulster MLA Mr McGlone said, “My heart goes out to the Brown family after what they have been put through in their fight to get truth and justice for Sean. His murder rocked this area and in the years since his family have done everything within their power to establish what happened to him and why. For the PSNI to object to the continuation of this inquest into his death after everything they have been through will only compound the hurt they have been experiencing all these years.
“To object on intelligence grounds will only raise further serious questions about the contents of evidence that has yet to be disclosed. To suggest a public inquiry into his death would be a better vehicle for the family completely ignores that time is running out and makes it appear that intelligence services are more invested in defending their own interests than helping the Brown family get justice.
“There is no guarantee that the family will be granted a public inquiry and the inquest into Mr Brown’s death should continue with the PSNI and intelligence service compelled to provide any evidence that is relevant to the process. I am incredibly disappointed with the way this issue has been handled given the sensitivities involved and offer the Brown family my full support as they continue their fight.”
ENDS
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