Ford describes Saville Report as opportunity to put truth on the record

4.55.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 15th Jun 2010

Justice Minister David Ford

Justice Minister David Ford has described Lord Saville's Report on Bloody Sunday as an opportunity to put truth on the record and has urged people to reflect on its contents.

The Minister received a copy of the report by the Bloody Sunday Inquiry this afternoon and said that he wants to study it carefully.

David Ford said: "This is obviously an emotional day for those who have waited years for the publication of this detailed report by Lord Saville. The report is an opportunity to put truth on the record and I will study it carefully. It is important that we take time to consider its findings.

"The report will once again raise questions on how Northern Ireland deals with its past and how as a society we can move forward.

"These are issues for the Northern Ireland Office, the Executive and the wider community as a whole to consider and I will ensure that the Department of Justice plays its role in contributing to the promotion of reconciliation and of a shared future."

ENDS