Covid-19 inquiry hears evidence in Northern Ireland

The UK Covid-19 Inquiry, sitting in Northern Ireland today for the first time, started Module 2C, examining political governance and core decision making during the pandemic.

Peter Wilcock KC, who represents the Northern Ireland Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice campaign group, said it was crucial to “fearlessly investigate any failures that contributed to the death of over 5,325 people”, whether arising from executive dysfunction, political point scoring or contingency planning that wasn't fit for purpose.

Martina Ferguson, Northern Ireland Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice spokesperson, who lost her mother Ursula Derry, was joined by a large group of bereaved families on day one of the Belfast sitting of the inquiry.

'We have come here today in memory of our loved ones, and to give those who we have lost a voice in the inquiry,” she said.

“We need all politicians to hear this message loud and clear: the value of this inquiry depends on you.

“If we are to learn lessons from how our loved ones were let down, and save lives in future pandemics, you must hand over evidence proactively and respond to our questions truthfully.

“And you must act on the inquiry’s recommendations quickly and without qualification.”

Martina said the coming weeks will be difficult for bereaved families, and for the people of Northern Ireland, as everyone comes to terms with the political and structural failures that shaped the pandemic experience.

“Little was done to ensure that the systems and services needed to respond adequately to a pandemic were fit for purpose,” said Martina.

“At times politics came before public health, and it was the most vulnerable in our society who paid the price.

“No-one can bring back our loved ones but we have an opportunity now, through the inquiry, to honour their memories.

“Their legacy will live on in those lives that will be saved when the next pandemic hits.”