Statement by Tánaiste Simon Harris on the 51st anniversary of the Dublin and Monaghan Bombings

Today marks the 51st anniversary of the Dublin and Monaghan Bombings, a most horrific act of violence that shocked our country to its core.

It is with great sadness that we remember the lives of the 34 people, including an unborn baby, who were taken from us on that summer afternoon. Five decades on, I am conscious that time can never truly erase the pain of their absence. My thoughts are with their families on this difficult day.

We remember also, the hundreds injured in the brutal attacks and all those who were left behind to face the significant challenges of lives forever changed.

Today is an opportunity to remind ourselves of the questions that remain unanswered. It remains deeply regrettable that no person has been held responsible for the attacks to date.

The publication of the Operation Denton report is expected in the coming months. It is my sincere hope that these findings will shed new light on the terrible events of 17 May 1974.

This government remains committed to finding truth and justice. I have raised the case of the Dublin Monaghan bombings with the British Government - highlighting the successive Motions passed in the Dáil with the unanimous support of all political parties. I am committed to taking this forward in a bid to get long-awaited answers.

ENDS

Press Office

17 May 2025