The Saville Inquiry

There has been, overall, a subdued, respectful reaction to the Saville Report into the events in Northern Ireland thirty eight years ago in which 13 people died.  The unequivocal findings were so clear that there was no room for political capital, nor any desire for it.  Yesterday was a day when honesty and transparency were the drivers for what followed, both from the Report itself and from the Prime Minister.

In a world of media spin and political obfuscation, presenting the bald truth with clear and genuine sorrow and regret has lanced the boil of uncertainty, grief and accusation.  Much dignity has been dispayed in the hours since the Report was published: it would be wonderful if it continued, with those most affected seeing it as the end of a long sad saga rather than seeking compensation for something long done.   In its own way justice has been done.  If the authorities choose to investigate the possibility of criminal charges then so beit, but let it come from them and not the families, whose lawyers may be  preparing their cases for large claims already.  To turn these events into a financial or legal circus for the sake of reward or revenge would be such a pity.