Sinn Féin MP Paul Maskey has welcomed a decision to prosecute a former British soldier for the murder of Patrick McVeigh and attempted murder of six others in 1972.

The West Belfast MP said:

“I welcome today’s decision by the PPS to proceed with prosecuting a former British soldier for the murder of Patrick McVeigh in 1972, and the attempted murder of six others.

“Today belongs to the families who have been steadfast in campaigning for justice for over five decades with dignity and determination.

“Rulings like today is exactly why the British Government wants to slam the door shut on families ever getting justice with its sham Legacy Act which is about covering up the role of shadowy state forces, like the MRF, who were involved in the killing of Irish citizens.

“This cruel and cynical law is now subject to robust legal challenge in the courts through the Irish Government’s interstate case and by individual heartbroken families who have fought tooth and nail to hold the British state accountable for its actions.”