Statement by Taoiseach Micheál Martin on the 50th anniversary of Bloody Friday, Belfast 21 July 1972

Today marks the fiftieth anniversary of one of the most appalling days in what was a year of tragic and terrible events across Northern Ireland.

On a busy Friday afternoon, nine people were killed in a shocking and mindless act of terror. They died following the explosion of multiple bombs by the Provisional IRA within moments of each other in the centre of Belfast. A further 130 people were seriously injured and countless others traumatised.

I want to express my profound sympathy today with all of their relatives and with the survivors from that devastating afternoon of violence. Together across the island, we should take a moment to remember those who lost their lives and who were brutally injured. It is also a time to reflect on the journey we have come on since those dark days and the importance of reconciliation as we look to the future on this island.