Kevin Winters

Yesterday’s final report from the Operation Kenova investigation into Stakeknife also included the high-level findings of Operation Denton, focused on a series of sectarian murders and attacks in the 1970s.

KRW Law LLP, which represents over 20 families affected by atrocities covered by Operation Denton, said findings of collusion on an individual level were welcome and “long fought for”.

However, the firm said its clients disagree with the conclusion that there was no evidence of systemic or higher-level collusion and the decision not to bring any related criminal prosecutions.

Solicitor Kevin Winters said: “The position regarding the Dublin and Monaghan bombings is particularly stark.

“Within hours of the attacks, the authorities knew the identity of all key suspects, yet there was no meaningful arrest strategy and no comprehensive investigative follow-through.

“That speaks volumes. It exemplifies the wider failures acknowledged in today’s report, including the decades of neglect, delay and misinformation endured by families.”

The firm said the findings will assist the families’ ongoing High Court litigation in Belfast against a number of state agencies.

In a statement, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said the findings of collusion in Operation Denton were “shocking and seismic”.

“The gravity of the findings in this report across Kenova, Mizzenmast, Turma and Denton is a reminder of the gravity of the suffering of all those affected,” he said.

“Dealing with the legacy of the Troubles remains essential work for both governments. I welcome the publication of this report in that context, including its acknowledgement of good cooperation by Irish authorities.

“Importantly, reciprocal cooperation is at the heart of the joint framework on legacy agreed in September.

“I welcome in particular the commitment by the UK authorities in the framework to provide reciprocal cooperation to Ireland for investigations, inquiries and inquests carried out in this jurisdiction.”