Downing Street Says » Gerry Conlon Apology

Asked for clarification about the Gerry Conlon issue, the Prime Minister’s Official Spokesman (PMOS) said that as he had already said at the morning lobby, it was always a matter for the Speaker of House as to whether he thought it was an appropriate question for PMQs or not. The Speaker had made a judgement. The Prime Minister had wanted to make his position clear on the record, and he had done so.

Asked if the Speaker had communicated directly with No10 to indicate if it was not going to happen, the PMOS said we did not get involved in talking about conversations with the Speaker. Gerry Conlon had said that the family were more than happy with the way things had turned out, and that was the important thing.

Asked what the Prime Minister felt was the significance of the statement in a general sense, the PMOS said this was a distinct request that the family asked for. They first asked for a letter to be sent to the leader of the SDLP last April, which we did. They then decided that they wanted it to be made public, and the Taoiseach and the SDLP asked for that last week during their recent meetings. The Prime Minister was quite content to make the statement public today. The PMOS said that as he had commented this morning people could not change the pain of the past in Northern Ireland, nor the pain of the victims or their families, but sometimes people could do things that helped to deal with the pain of the present. If it could be done, then it was the decent thing to try and do, and this was how the apology should be seen. It should not be seen through a political spectrum, but rather, as something we were able to do which would help the families. It would also importantly help clarify once and for all that they were innocent victims of a miscarriage of justice.

Asked what signal the apology sent to the Republican community, the PMOS said he was always very reluctant to get drawn into making statements relating to victims. This was because it looked like in some way, victims were part of the political game, which was not the way it should be regarded. What people had to do, in the face of the past, was to approach the situation with a degree of humility, and be very careful about handling the past. If there were certain things that anyone could do, on any side that would ease the pain of the victims, then people should endeavour to do them.

Asked what the Prime Minister would say to the Birmingham Six and other victims of miscarriages of justice, and would they too receive an apology from him, the PMOS replied that he was not getting into hypothetical situations. Where there were miscarriages of justice, it was right and proper that we recognised that in the past, that had been the case. This was a specific request, relating to the circumstances of the family, and their strong desire that there should be a public statement that completely exonerated them. The PMOS said that the meeting was one that anyone who attended would ever forget; the strength of feelings of relief that the Prime Minister’s apology brought to them was obvious, and was obvious to anyone who had spoken to the family since. The PMOS said he was not going to get into other cases, as it was not appropriate today.

Put to him that there were many other people who felt they had been victimised and badly treated by the British judicial system, and why should one set of people receive an apology, but not another, the PMOS answered that one judged each set of circumstances on the circumstances. In Northern Ireland, there had been far too many victims, and if the present problems that people suffered from in any way could be relieved, then that was the right and decent thing to do.

Asked to respond to Ian Paisley’s question about progress towards appointing a new Victims Commissioner, the PMOS referred the journalist to the Northern Ireland Office, as they were in charge of running the process. The PMOS said there were two things that should be recognised. The first was, what had actually been achieved to help victims since the Good Friday Agreement. A remarkable fact was, it was only since the Good Friday that there had been action taken to help victims. The second point to recognise was that everyone had to show humility, and recognise that what help was provided would never be enough. However, we had tried through the establishment of various funds to move things forward.

Put to him that the SDLP had suggested that the Conlon and Maguire families should receive proper compensation, he PMOS said he did not want to comment on such matters since it was a matter for the Home Office to consider.

Put to the PMOS again that Gerry Conlon had said the Prime Minister had told him that he would "look into" financial compensation and also medical help, the PMOS repeated that the Home Office was the proper department to be dealing with the issue, and he did not want to prejudge that process.

Asked if any new evidence had emerged recently to inspire this apology, given that there had been three Prime Ministers in the interim, the PMOS said: no, as this apology was asked for by initially the SDLP, then by the Irish Government. It was done so because of the particular circumstances of the families, and the judgement that the family continued to suffer from the trauma of the feeling that other people continued to think that in some way they were guilty. The Prime Minister believed it was right to underline for the sake of the family that he believed they were completely exonerated. It was the right thing to do.

Asked if it would not have any effect whatsoever on the wider political process, the PMOS said that people would reflect on this and draw their own conclusions. It was right and proper, however, that people did that for themselves, rather than in some way, we tried to use this to make a broader political point. This was a request that came forward, and therefore, it was proper that we responded to it as such.

Asked if the Prime Minister had shaken hands with the families, the PMOS said that he had.

Asked if the Prime Minister had apologised to the Bloody Sunday victims, as he had done to the Irish Potato famine, the PMOS replied that as the Bloody Sunday Inquiry was still ongoing, he could not be certain. It was better to await to outcome of that.

Put that this could be the "thin end of a wedge" and where did the apologies stop, once started, the PMOS said that particular circumstances surrounding one event had to be considered. That was what we were asked to do by both the SDLP and the Irish Government, and it had brought relief and was the right thing to do.

48 Comments »

I have just watched hardtalk on BBC 2 (Wednesday 23rd February 2004)featuring Jerry Conlan. Like most people I had nothing but contempt for Mr Conlan, and believed he was justly imprisoned. At the time the PM apologised I questioned whether that was an appropriate thing for Mr Blair to do, yet after watching HardTalk I found myself being immensely impressed with the dignity and honesty Mr Conlan showed. With hindsight, knowing what I now do, Mr Blair was right to apologise on behalf of the British Government. I wish Mr Conlan every happiness for the future. Life can unfortunately be very unfair.
Comment by Tony Morris — 24 Feb 2005 on 12:23 am | Link
I read ‘In the Name of the Father’ before I even really knew who Gerry was, or indeed any of the Guildford Four. But as soon as I had read it I was in no doubt that Gerry and the others were inocent. It is an ambition of mine to meet Gerry, who I think has shown courage and strength throughout his ordeal.
Good luck to him in all he does.
Comment by Joanna Drake — 24 Feb 2005 on 7:50 pm | Link
I watched the film "In the name of the father!"today and was deeply shocked,why this would happen in such a democratic country?Well that’s they call themslef,probably just use this to hide their fear.No doubt,it is the courage and mind of Mr. Conlan and his father and whoever had such a brave and determined mind that will unveil these scandals.I have nothing but contempt for the one who had such a history or an inclination of doing these deed or being such a flunky.go to hell,you!I was more than angry!
Comment by *** — 26 Feb 2005 on 1:00 pm | Link
hi im from mexico and i just saw your movie like 5 days ago and i cant believe what happend man so i was woundering what happened with the guilty people cause in the movie says that nobody got punish and thats sucks well i gotta go and if u need help some day just mail me bye
Comment by orencio quintanilla — 26 Mar 2005 on 11:55 pm | Link
I watched the movie "In the name of the father" and then read the book "Proved Innocent" and was so shocked about what happend to these people! I really feel sorry for Mr. Conlon and his family. What the Goverment did to them is unforgivable. They took away 15 years of his life and let his father die in the prison for something they did not do! I was so touched by Gerry Conlon’s story that I even went all the way from South Africa to visit the grave of Gerry’s father! I wish Gerry all the happiness that he truly deserves.
Comment by Gerhard Nieuwoudt — 18 Jun 2005 on 12:32 pm | Link
I too watched "In the name of the father" a few years ago and still feel very emotional when I hear the name Gerry Conlon. It is hoped that something that can be learned by this but as we all know, miscarriages of justice still go on today. Good luck to Gerry and all his family and friends and hope he can find peace in this crazy world.
Comment by Melanie — 2 Jul 2005 on 3:20 pm | Link
After whatching "In The Name Of The Father", at school, To me Gerry conlon is a heroe. We have done several assignment on him and every time i research this courageous and out-spoken man i am amazed to see what pain and suffering he went through for all those years. To see your father die before you would be an event never to escape your mind. Gerry conlon is a true insperation to all.

I wish him all the very very best in all that he does in the future.
Comment by David — 3 Aug 2005 on 2:29 am | Link
I watched this film some 10/11 years ago and was appalled by the way these four innocent victims were abused by the British government; all Gerry Conlon and Paul Hill did wrong was be in the wrong place at the wrong time 15 years in prison for something they did not commit well I don’t think I would be able to forgive the British government for such terrible crimes.

Good Luck Gerry in everything your future brings you
Comment by Keith — 18 Aug 2005 on 12:26 pm | Link
I’m Italian, i’ve watch the movie "In the name of the father" today 30 august 2005.
Incredible story, i’ve cry for this boys but i’m happy all is to good finish.Geery and your friend i said to you good luck!! Really gladiator!!
Sorry for my english.
Comment by chris — 30 Aug 2005 on 1:45 pm | Link
Having read all the replies to this issue i have noticed that several of them having finally heard "both sides of the story " wish the best to Mr Conlon. I notice however that none apologise for what they thought was right. I t has since become very obvious to everyone that the ones acussed were infact fitted up by the British Establishment. Is it really so hard to say " yes, we were worong …?".
I am disgusted even to this day to think that this could happen in my country, but there again thats the "Brits " for yah !.
P.s , Yes i do undersatnd how it was for the ones accused, i was a n english bloke who lived in a catholic estate in Armagh for 10 years and saw both sides of the story.

Long live the truth….
Comment by martyn kenny — 6 Sep 2005 on 9:07 pm | Link
FUCK BRITAIN
YOU ALL TREAT IRISH LIKE SHIT…HOPE YOU FUCKS ALL GET KILLED
Comment by joel burton — 5 Oct 2005 on 5:08 pm | Link
I read the book, I saw the movie, yesterday I finnaly had the chance to buy it. I just watch it again. It’s really unbelieveble, that this story really happened. I don’t know nothing about England and Ierland, I’m living in Holland.
I can’t imgine how some one just can putt you away for 15 years, even for stealling 700 pounds from a hooker. I just want to say to you Gerry that I have the most respect for you, even I don’t know you. I wished that I was born much earlier, and that I was living in Belfast also. that we could hang out some time. I gues it will never happen, I’m 19 years old I don\xB4t know how old you are already. Maybe I can come to your place some time, to drink some tea or something. I wish you further a good life, my our heavenly father be with you in everything you do. Because if some one deserves it, it would be you.

See you arround Gerben
Comment by Gerben — 23 Nov 2005 on 8:06 pm | Link
I read the book, I saw the movie, yesterday I finnaly had the chance to buy it. I just watch it again. It’s really unbelieveble, that this story really happened. I don’t know nothing about England and Ierland, I’m living in Holland.
I can’t imgine how some one just can putt you away for 15 years, even for stealling 700 pounds from a hooker. I just want to say to you Gerry that I have the most respect for you, even I don’t know you. I wished that I was born much earlier, and that I was living in Belfast also. that we could hang out some time. I gues it will never happen, I’m 19 years old I don\xB4t know how old you are already. Maybe I can come to your place some time, to drink some tea or something. I wish you further a good life, my our heavenly father be with you in everything you do. Because if some one deserves it, it would be you.

See you arround Gerben
Comment by Gerben — 23 Nov 2005 on 8:06 pm | Link
sorry i’am no speack english: andorra ,un infierno tubiste que passar para poder de nuevo la luz del sol brillar,es de todos conocido que los gobiernos sacrifican a los inocentes para lavar su s trapos sucios y es con la sanger de los inocentes como tu y tu familia que se lavaron ellos las manos,si existe un dios no se si los condenara ya que dicen que duios perdona los pecados de los hombres,yo no lo se ya que aun estoy buscando a dios o algo que me haga creer que las cosas valen la pena pero estoy seguro que esa gente en su interior se sienten tan miserables que dia a dia la vida es una prision para ellos,una carcel sin barrotes ni guardias en la que son prisioneros de sus actos y tormentados por los ojos de los inocentes a los que pribaron de la libertad y humanidad de la que otros gozamos,que tu vida sea y haya sido prospera y tranquila despues de aquello y que solo guardes la memoria de los que te quieren y a los que has querido,hasta que la luz de la vida se apage y de paso a lo que muchos llaman el paraiso.good luck mr gerry
Comment by toni — 3 Jan 2006 on 4:03 am | Link
sorry i’am no speack english: andorra ,un infierno tubiste que passar para poder de nuevo la luz del sol brillar,es de todos conocido que los gobiernos sacrifican a los inocentes para lavar su s trapos sucios y es con la sanger de los inocentes como tu y tu familia que se lavaron ellos las manos,si existe un dios no se si los condenara ya que dicen que duios perdona los pecados de los hombres,yo no lo se ya que aun estoy buscando a dios o algo que me haga creer que las cosas valen la pena pero estoy seguro que esa gente en su interior se sienten tan miserables que dia a dia la vida es una prision para ellos,una carcel sin barrotes ni guardias en la que son prisioneros de sus actos y tormentados por los ojos de los inocentes a los que pribaron de la libertad y humanidad de la que otros gozamos,que tu vida sea y haya sido prospera y tranquila despues de aquello y que solo guardes la memoria de los que te quieren y a los que has querido,hasta que la luz de la vida se apage y de paso a lo que muchos llaman el paraiso.good luck mr gerry
Comment by toni — 3 Jan 2006 on 4:04 am | Link
Having tonight ( 10 Jan 2006 ) watched " In the name of the father " , I am appalled at what length a demcratic country’s police will go to " close a case ".
What this family went through, and the total lack of remorse from the British police shocked, and scared me. What else could they possibly do to another person they want to " put away " ? What else have they done to others that have not been as fortunate as Gerry to have proven his innocence ? Is the police action in this case any better or worst than the people that they say they are protecting us from ? Does the means justify the end ? All these questions have gone through my head, and I feel that in our society that we hold so special, the truth must prevail at all times, sometimes even if it does not seem convenient at the time. Better a guilty man is freed than an innocent man is jailed. I wish you well Gerry Conlon.
Comment by charlie ditore — 10 Jan 2006 on 3:40 pm | Link
Having tonight ( 10 Jan 2006 ) watched " In the name of the father " , I am appalled at what length a demcratic country’s police will go to " close a case ".
What this family went through, and the total lack of remorse from the British police shocked, and scared me. What else could they possibly do to another person they want to " put away " ? What else have they done to others that have not been as fortunate as Gerry to have proven his innocence ? Is the police action in this case any better or worst than the people that they say they are protecting us from ? Does the means justify the end ? All these questions have gone through my head, and I feel that in our society that we hold so special, the truth must prevail at all times, sometimes even if it does not seem convenient at the time. Better a guilty man is freed than an innocent man is jailed. I wish you well Gerry Conlon.
Comment by charlie ditore — 10 Jan 2006 on 3:40 pm | Link
Today, 13 Jan 2005 is my second time wathcing "In The Name Of The Father" And still Just like when I saw it the first time in 1998, I still have knots in my stomach after the movie. I’m second generation Irish American and a Catholic. My Moms parents came from Belfast. And my Dad is a Protestant and has Irish roots also. I realize how lucky I am being exposed to both religions and knowing that in some places on this earth this would be frowned apon (for lack of a better term). Growing up I thought of this as a very small example of how two religions can get along despite what is going on in the world and considered my self blessed with two loving parents who didn’t let that get in the way of love. It’s hard to fathom what people have to go through just because of their race, religion, nationality ect. And think that this movie is a perfect example of the injustices that are going on toward different people because they are different. I guess what I’m trying to say at 11:07 p.m. when I’m very tired is that if we can do it, then more people should and hopefully in some small way it would help make this place better for everyone. To Gerry Conlon, I would like to take this chance to say I’m sorry for your the loss of your father and freedom. I hope life is treating you better and the same to your friends.
Cheers!
Joe Malley
Comment by Joe Malley — 13 Jan 2006 on 2:11 pm | Link
I am a third generation Irish American who has followed the troubles of Ireland since I was a child. Gerry Conlan is but a microcosm of what can happen when a government crosses the line in the interest of \x93National Security\x94. While I do not excuse the actions of the IRA, I can certainly see the progression of events that caused them to adopt the tactics the have used over the past century (as Michael Collins described it \x93Bloody Mayhem\x94). When innocents such as the Guildford Four (people who had absolutely nothing to do with the IRA) are imprisoned for crimes they did not commit, when their rights of due process are trampled this is the ultimate miscarriage of justice.
Why my country chooses to ally itself with a government with such a sordid track record on human rights and due process astounds me. Oh wait a minute, that\x92s right I live in America where elections are now bought and sold, where the \x93Patriot Act\x94 is quickly writing the bill of rights on an Etch-A-Sketch in the name of national security. Where religious tolerance is giving sway to religious zealots that make Ian Paisley seem like a moderate, and class warfare is the rallying cry of the fundamentally wrong fundamental right.
My mother explained it to me best once, \x93The English treat the Irish as a sub-human species.\x94 Not unlike what the Blacks in the American south went through in the 50\x92s and 60\x92s. Unfortunately while America has progressed (we still have far to go) the Catholics in Northern Ireland are still climbing \x93Jacobs Ladder\x94.
God Bless you Gerry Conlan.

P.S. recommended reading.
Thomas Cahill, How the Irish Saved Civilization
Tim Pat Coogan, The IRA A History
Jill & Leon Uris, Ireland a Terrible Beauty and Ireland Revisited.
Comment by John Austin — 24 Jan 2006 on 5:43 am | Link
Sorry, my english is not good.In fact, I am french(nobody is perfect)but in my heart I am irish anyway.My name is Patrick.The first time I heard about Gerry’s story,it was in a french TVreport in 1989.I saw Gerry out of the court with his family and friends.He won his freedom.About ten years after,I saw the Jim Sheridan’s film, and then I understood how much Gerry and his friends have suffered.The next time I will go to Ireland ,I will try to find the Milltown cemetery, and I swear I will kneel on Giuseppe’s grave.And,god willing,if one day I meet Gerry, I will be happy to share a drink with him.(Damage people are dangerous because they know they can survive).
Comment by Patrick — 22 Mar 2006 on 12:40 pm | Link
Mi chiamo Andrea, e ho visto il film "nel nome del padre" (10/11 volte)ed ogni volta che lo rivedo mi emoziono come la prima volta.
quello che voglio dire con queste due righe e che Gerry Conlon pu\xF2 considerarsi un eroe ai miei occhi insieme a tutti gli altri.
mi piacerebbe conoscerti personalmente!
Tutto quello che posso fare ..e che prima o poi.. verr\xF2 a Belfast e porter\xF2 dei fiori sulla tomba di tuo padre.
Ti auguro tutta la fortuna possibile
Comment by Andrea — 6 Apr 2006 on 3:34 pm | Link
I just watched the movie "In the name of the father" again here in my English class in Denmark.(Where I live now). I must admire the whole family, including Guiseppe Conlon who sadly passed away in prison, for surviving all that time. I honestly do not know if I had enough faith after such horrible treatment from the government. I am disgusted but at the same time I feel fear that this can happen in our society.

I have been in Ireland, I lived there for 6 months while I was a flight attendant. I lived in Dublin but we visited Belfast. The atmosphere is a bit different there a bit more tention. It is hard to take away the tention and intolerance towards each other for our differences when things like this injustice happen. It is their responsibilety (the police and government) to make sure that the right people are punished and that we can sleep at night because they have the right people. This is unforgivable to me! No appoligy will ever bring back 15 years or a LIFE!

I just wan’t to show my respect for all the people in this case that were wrongly accused. Fair play to you all. The more sorrow you go through the more room will there be for your happyness, I read from the Prophet by Khalil Gibran. God Bless, kind regards Ingibjorg
Comment by Ingibj\xF8rg Thora — 20 Apr 2006 on 10:48 am | Link
Hello, im Zahra and i have a question about Gerry Conlon. Do you know if he still alive or not?… if he is, how can i get more information about him.

Zahra
Comment by Zahra — 1 May 2006 on 11:11 am | Link
i watched in the name of the father in my r.e class at school i can’t believe that the english police force back then was so stupid 2 not listen 2 gerry conlon and the others. gerry is a real hero and should never be forgotten it was terrible for him to lose his dad in prison and not even be allowed to go with him to the hospital for his last hour
i’ll never forget u gerry
Comment by Fran — 10 May 2006 on 7:54 pm | Link
Last night my wife and I watched "In the Name of the Father…" and came away feeling saddened once again by the fact that official misconduct almost always goes unpunished.
Your site is a blessing! It gives those of us who have lived through the bitter times a chance to express our sadness and outrage for what the "authorities" have done (and got away with), not only to Gerry Conlon and his family and the Guildford Four, but to "political prisoners" everywhere (just look at Guantanamo today).
Thanks, especially to Jerry Conlon for becoming the mature man Giuseppe always wanted him to be, for being persistent in the face of official power and demanding a direct apology to him and his family by the leader of the British government, finally delivered by Mr Blair.
As an American, I agree totally with the remarks of John Austin (24 Jan 2006).
God Bless, Gerry, and all innocent victims. Speak truth to Power — Long live the truth.
Comment by Julian C. — 22 Jul 2006 on 6:17 pm | Link
I just watched "In the Name of the Father" and thought it was a brilliant movie. However, I came away very bitter in that the real guilty parties (the British police) were not convicted. What they did was no different than murder or "treason against the British government." The fact that their were no convictions of the policemen involved doesn’t suprise me. It seems Great Britain has a history of "turning their head away" or "sweeping things under a rug" when a person of authoritative power abuses it and performs unjustly crimes. for example, in 1919, there was the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in India. I know it goes on everywhere as far police or military people not getting convicted for unlawful acts, but for some reason the British government seems to be the worst. Does anyone know if the Guilford Four and the parties involved are at least allowed to file a civil law suit?? will their be any more action against the police??
Comment by Neeraj Kalra — 19 Aug 2006 on 2:40 am | Link
I saw the movie , yeah me ‘too’… a truly powerful movie it is… "In the Name of the Father", a must watch for movie connosieurs and those who value freedom in the sincerest sense.

The Brits knew it all along , a whole family and many more’s lives destroyed just for the sake of the pride of a completely inefficient and morally bankrupt judicial system.

I understand the police were under pressure , but 15 years is something no predicament would condone.

The Brits have more blood on their hands than even what Adolf Hitler himself is supposed to, Africa to Asia , Belfast to Bombay, masses trampled under the foot of the queen. An oppressive regime since the dawn of the industrial age, shamefully the birth of modern democracy with the Magna Carta.

For all my love of things about the Brits, pretty shameful a legacy they have for themselves.

Tony Blair , finally , did some damage control , hats off to him, finally… better late than never.

No offence to the Brits in particular, but just look back , they just did quite a few centuries what the USA now seems to be aspiring to do , and what Nazi Germany desired to… global domination by sheer shameless force.

God bless Gerry , grant peace to Guiseppe’s soul.
Comment by RW — 30 Aug 2006 on 12:30 am | Link
I just got done watching the latter half of the tv version of "In The Name Of The Father" and felt the same disgust and sorrow I felt the first time I saw the movie many years ago. And to think cruel people purposely inflict hell on innocent others every day…..
Comment by jake — 30 Aug 2006 on 8:42 am | Link
In 1989 the Conlon’s and Maguire’s were out of prison. Sad and late victory of truth against a strange judicial system!!
Also in 1989 in my country, Romania , there was a sort of a revolution and 24 million people were also set free. In my country there are also many " Conlon’s cases".In a couple of month we will join E.U.
Judicial system in my country will also reach "high standards" of the british E.U. co-member ???
Apology??? Too late!!!!
Thanks God for Gerry’s strong character!
Probably another one faint-hearted, after 15 years in prison for nothing,would have really become an IRA member.
Comment by Ciprian Hutanu — 10 Oct 2006 on 9:29 pm | Link
Gerry contigo todo fue una injusticia. Yo soy espa\xF1ola pero te deseo que seas la persona m\xE1s feliz del mundo. Todos luchamos por tus derechos.y sobre todo por la paz. muchiiisimos besos de Ana
Comment by Ana — 7 Nov 2006 on 6:24 pm | Link
Oh the ways in which, democratic governments break or bend the rules in search of terrorists. Guilty until proven innocent…innocent lives permanently altered…the cyle continues sadly enough. This story made me weep for Gerry, his family,his co defendents and for the unknown, unnamed prisoners in Guantanamo who are experiencing a similar hell today.
Comment by Elaine — 19 Nov 2006 on 6:22 am | Link
Oh the ways in which, democratic governments break or bend the rules in search of terrorists. Guilty until proven innocent…innocent lives permanently altered…the cyle continues sadly enough. This story made me weep for Gerry, his family,his co defendents and for the unknown, unnamed prisoners in Guantanamo who are experiencing a similar hell today.
Comment by Elaine — 19 Nov 2006 on 6:24 am | Link
I have watched "In the Name of the Father" once again. I am amazed and disgusted everytime I watch it. The government ruined lives so that they could close this case, save face and appear to the public as if they had accomplished something good. I do not think I am overstating by saying their crimes against the Guildford Four and their families was nothing short of evil. What happened to the authorities who tortured and brutalized these young people and then hid evidence and lied through their teeth in court? anything? The British have always treated the Irish rotten, as non-humans. We have to ask ourselves how could this happen in a Democracy. We have to always be vigilant and never let rights be taken away lightly under the guise of so-called security and safety.I live in the US where the Patriot Act and Military Commissions Act have recently been passed. Most here in the US think that what happened to Conlon, his friends and family can never happen here. And I am afraid they are wrong.
Comment by Mary — 12 Dec 2006 on 5:06 am | Link
I have watched "In the Name of the Father" once again. I am amazed and disgusted everytime I watch it. The government ruined lives so that they could close this case, save face and appear to the public as if they had accomplished something good. I do not think I am overstating by saying their crimes against the Guildford Four and their families was nothing short of evil. What happened to the authorities who tortured and brutalized these young people and then hid evidence and lied through their teeth in court? anything? The British have always treated the Irish rotten, as non-humans. We have to ask ourselves how could this happen in a Democracy. We have to always be vigilant and never let rights be taken away lightly under the guise of so-called security and safety.I live in the US where the Patriot Act and Military Commissions Act have recently been passed. Most here in the US think that what happened to Conlon, his friends and family can never happen here. And I am afraid they are wrong.
Comment by Mary — 12 Dec 2006 on 5:11 am | Link
I have watched "In the Name of the Father" once again. I am amazed and disgusted everytime I watch it. The government ruined lives so that they could close this case, save face and appear to the public as if they had accomplished something good. I do not think I am overstating by saying their crimes against the Guildford Four and their families was nothing short of evil. What happened to the authorities who tortured and brutalized these young people and then hid evidence and lied through their teeth in court? anything? The British have always treated the Irish rotten, as non-humans. We have to ask ourselves how could this happen in a Democracy. We have to always be vigilant and never let rights be taken away lightly under the guise of so-called security and safety.I live in the US where the Patriot Act and Military Commissions Act have recently been passed. Most here in the US think that what happened to Conlon, his friends and family can never happen here. And I am afraid they are wrong.
Comment by Mary — 12 Dec 2006 on 5:21 am | Link
I have watched "In the Name of the Father" once again. I am amazed and disgusted everytime I watch it. The government ruined lives so that they could close this case, save face and appear to the public as if they had accomplished something good. I do not think I am overstating by saying their crimes against the Guildford Four and their families was nothing short of evil. What happened to the authorities who tortured and brutalized these young people and then hid evidence and lied through their teeth in court? anything? The British have always treated the Irish rotten, as non-humans. We have to ask ourselves how could this happen in a Democracy. We have to always be vigilant and never let rights be taken away lightly under the guise of so-called security and safety.I live in the US where the Patriot Act and Military Commissions Act have recently been passed. Most here in the US think that what happened to Conlon, his friends and family can never happen here. And I am afraid they are wrong.
Comment by Mary — 12 Dec 2006 on 5:23 am | Link
I have also watched "In the Name of the Father" read "Proved Innocent" and am totally outraged. What is particularly disturbing is the fact that the decorated policemen who committed perjury and perversion of the course of justice have not been brought to trial. As there is no statute of limitations for these crimes and the evidence proving guilt is readily available (eg transcripts of testimony given under oath etc.) it would be a simple matter to lay information and commence proceedings. As far as I know police are not granted immunity to the laws of the land. Failure to do so demonstrates a corruption of the legal system that can only erode its legitimacy.
Comment by Bill Power — 4 May 2007 on 5:12 am | Link
I watched ‘In the Name of The Father’ 3 times in a row. It is so sad what happened to the ‘Four’. For those of you who were wondering if Gerry is still around: I think he lives alone on the South Coast of the UK in a one bedroom apartment. I want to read the book now, I wonder how close to the Book the film is.
My heart goes out to The Guildford Four: Paddy Armstrong, Paul Hill, Carole Rochardson, and Of course Gerry Conlon. YOU ARE AN INSPIRATION TO ALL OF US! ( AND FUCK THE BRITS). Those Police Should have been hanged. Gerry I would love to meet you someday, and I will visit your fathers grave someday….he was a great man.
Comment by Jessica in Ireland — 15 May 2007 on 4:01 pm | Link
Thanx Gerry, your history is the present! Let’s fight for justice, for our rights!

Gracias Gerry, tu historia es el presente! Luchamos por la justicia, por nuestros derechos!

Grazie Gerry, la tua storia \xE8 il presente! Lottiamo per la giustizia, per i nostri diritti!
Comment by Antonio — 8 Jun 2007 on 4:12 pm | Link
Thanx Gerry, your history is the present! Let’s fight for justice, for our rights!

Gracias Gerry, tu historia es el presente! Luchamos por la justicia, por nuestros derechos!

Grazie Gerry, la tua storia \xE8 il presente! Lottiamo per la giustizia, per i nostri diritti!
Comment by Antonio — 8 Jun 2007 on 4:13 pm | Link
Man, just saw the movie "In the Name of the Father".Didnt heard something about this until now. Dont know what to say, but this was fucked up. How could this happend??? I hope god will punish them all!!! 22-07-07
Comment by Tarqan — 22 Jul 2007 on 12:32 am | Link
Well, i am an american and i just watched the movie, being boren in 1982 being from the states and didnt know anything about this issue. Once i watched the movie i had to write somehwere at the hopes that one of the family members would read this. I said a prayer for giuseppe god bless his soul. there are no words i could say that you havent already heard but it truley moved me and i wish the best for all of the people involved that were released. God bless you all you truley deserve justice and peace
Comment by Chris Neary — 13 Apr 2008 on 11:12 pm | Link
After watching this film some 10+ years ago, I still say it is the best film I have seen (many times over)- DDL did an incredible job not only acting the part but for Gerry himself. I am an Aussie and no wonder we have nothing but contempt for the POMS. Who can blame the Irish ? The POMS have a history of world imperialism, and still they don’t freaking learn. Just ask the Scots, William Wallace ring any bells ??
In this case, they would rather rub-out some poor Irishman and his whole family in a typical pompous arrogant manner the POMS are infamous for…and to top it off, the corrupt cops still got off – they still look after their own.
No wonder we want to break away from the Commonwealth and become a Republic. The POMS still have a lot to learn and be humble (Royal family included).
God bless you Gerry, your family and the remainder of all the innocents that were convicted by right royal boffins on that fateful black day that really showed what the POMS are really made of…
Comment by Myles Harris — 15 Dec 2008 on 3:46 pm | Link
I’m not much of a movie watcher however after hearing about this awful crime committed against
these four young innocent people and the Conlon Family I read the book than saw the Movie. I weeped, It hurts so bad to watch one group of human beings oppress, imprision and even kill another group of people because they are different. This story I know is just one of many injustices that not only happened there in England but happens around the world everyday,I mean everywhere in the world not place is safe. We must continue to make a loud noise about these types of
human injustices. I know money cannot replace Mrs. Conlon’s husband life or give back the over 15 years all those people (Gerry’s Aunt, cousins, friends) who were not only wrongly accused but served time, but an enormous amount of money would be in order for pain and suffering! An it seems to me that some folks need to do some prison time…I think we all know who I’m refering too.
Comment by robin Williams-Nohara — 31 Dec 2008 on 6:51 am | Link
i have owned this movie since it came out and have treasured it ,my heart goes out to jerry and his family ,i only wish is that when he came to toronto i could have been there to shake his hand . i watch this movie over and over , for i find it insperational to me everytime i feel it gouldnt get any worse i remember jerry, and just what he had to deal with , well jerry my hats off to you mate ….. all the best i do hope your father was cleared and is proud of you to see the type of man you turned out to be
Comment by don sewell — 20 Oct 2009 on 7:04 am | Link
i was lucky to meet gerry conlan when he worked for a local charity and called on me when he was pardoned by blair he called the next week and he said to me you always knew who i was dident you i told him the first week he called i said to my wife thats gerry conlan we had just come back from a holiday in killarney and while in a bookshop there saw a book with him on the cover talked to gerry that last time he called and he talked about his dad and was very emotional still we found gerry to be a charming man who was doing his best to recover from a digustig miscarrage of justice good luck gerry
Comment by terry fallon — 28 May 2010 on 9:24 pm | Link
Today I have just seen the film “In the Name Of The Father” and I was deeply confused with the fact that the British Justice tried to hide all the facts, all the real facts tesifying to innocence of these poor people. I like the film very much, great thanks to Gerry and his Father for their dignity, for their endurance. I was very pleased that they are free now, although Gerry’s dad, unfortunately already dead. God bless him. Thanks very much for the film!!!
Comment by Vladimir — 17 Dec 2011 on 4:56 pm | Link
Is there no terrorist guilty, one comment says the brits have more blood on their hands than Adolf Hitler, really well this brits family gave their lives that u could write ur vile bigoted comments on here, Blair apologies to keep his widfe,inside Coz believe me it was not on my it anyone I know behalf! Where’s the IRA a apology for t
he innocent protestants and catholics they maimed and killed, no apology no shame! No surrender!
Comment by Janice Fallow — 27 Jan 2013 on 2:17 am | Link

RSS feed for comments on this post.

Post a public comment

Name (required)
E-mail (required)
(You must give an email address, but it will not be displayed to the public.)
Website
(You may give your website, and it will be displayed to the public.)

Comments:

This is not a way of contacting the Prime Minister. If you would like to contact the Prime Minister, go to the 10 Downing Street official site.

Privacy note: Shortly after posting, your name and comment will be displayed on the site. This means that people searching for your name on the Internet will be able to find and read your comment.

Original PMOS briefings are © Crown Copyright. Crown Copyright material is reproduced with the permission of the Controller of HMSO and the Queen's Printer for Scotland. Click-use licence number C02W0004089. Material is reproduced from the original 10 Downing Street source, but may not be the most up-to-date version of the briefings, which might be revised at the original source. Users should check with the original source in case of revisions. Comments are © Copyright contributors. Everything else is © Copyright Downing Street Says.

» Wednesday, February 9, 2005

Gerry Conlon Apology

48 Comments »

Post a public comment

Search

Supported by

Recent Briefings

Archives

Links

Syndicate (RSS/XML)

Credits

Enquiries