Northern Ireland 1987-97 Flashcards
What was Thatcher’s approach to Ireland in her final years?
Didn’t change, banned organisations believed to support terrorist activities form broadcasting
They got around this by dubbing voices w/ actors
Why did the SAS ‘shoot to kill’ policy come under scrutiny?
3 IRA members were killed in Gibraltar in ‘88, believed to have a bomb on them but when they searched them, they didn’t
3 civilians killed by Michael Stone at one of the funerals then 2 off-duty soldiers killed by IRA bomb at funeral of person killed by Stone
Guildford Four and Birmingham Six
Jailed for life for bombing two pubs killing 5 ppl but case overturned ‘89 and wrongfully convicted
Jailed for life in ‘75 for bombing two pubs killing 21 ppl, case overturned in ‘91
How were loyalist killing reported?
Often went unreported, ‘93, 8 ppl killed in bar attack by UDA, no repercussions
Govt. even accused of supplying/ allowing loyalist access heavy supplies of ammunition
What was the breakthrough with the Troubles?
‘93, govt. received secret messages that Sinn Fein were ready to discuss peace deal
Issue of loyalists fearful of being ‘sold out’ + overcoming deep set republican hatred to B
Who made first steps in the peace process?
Tories did by reassuring unionists and Major had good relationship w/ Irish PM Reynolds and Clinton helped encourage Sinn Féin to stay away from violence
When was the Downing St. Declaration?
‘93, Major + Reynolds announced joint declaration and in ‘94, IRA announced ceasefire - both sides were still wary though
How successful was Downing St. Declaration?
Seemed like peace was possible but failed to produce all-round peace agreement, obstacle w/ decommissioning paramilitary weapons as govt. were dependent on Ulster unionists to stay in power and UU demanded decommissioning before Sinn Fein were allowed into talks
IRA got impatient and bombed Canary Wharf and Arndale centre ‘96, Unionist group killed Gerry Adams’ son
What was included in the Downing St Declaration?
Declared Britain to have no selfish strategic economic interests in N.Ireland
Came about because ppl wanted and to violence and there was pressure form US who were sympathetic to Irish Nationalist cause
