Northern Ireland needs South Africa-style truth commission: Blair Modelled on South Africa s post-apartheid experience, the commission would be a better approach than endless recriminations in court prosecutions, said the former British prime minister. Former British prime minister Tony Blair. Picture: AFP.
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LONDON - British former prime minister Tony Blair called Wednesday for a truth and reconciliation commission for Northern Ireland to address historical crimes on both sides of The Troubles .
Modelled on South Africa s post-apartheid experience, the commission would be a better approach than endless recriminations in court prosecutions, Blair indicated, a day after a coroner s inquest heavily criticised British troops over 10 deaths in 1971.
Senior ministers from Boris Johnson s Government met with representatives of loyalist paramilitaries during a visit to Northern Ireland, it was revealed today.
Brexit Minister Lord Frost and Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis met a delegation from the Loyalist Communities Council (LCC) on Monday to discuss Brexit concerns.
The meeting, which is sure to raise eyebrows, came comes amid continued disputes over Northern Ireland s post-Brexit arrangements.
The problems with the border under the Northern Ireland Protocol agreed with Brussels in December sparked loyalist violence in recent weeks that left several police officers injured.
Downing Street did not deny the meeting took place, with the Prime Minister s official spokesman saying it was important to engage widely with communities in Northern Ireland.