Victor Barker testified at the Omagh Bombing Inquiry, recalling the tragic loss of his son James, who was killed in the 1998 Real IRA bombing. He lamented the inadequate police investigation and criticized former chief constable Sir Ronnie Flanagan. The inquiry is hearing testimonies from victims and emergency responders. Barker poignantly reflected on the universal nature of pain and love, while also noting the injustice perceived in the disparity between victims' rights and those of terrorists. The inquiry paused to honor another victim's mother who had recently passed.
Like so many thousands of others who have lost loved ones in the Troubles, I have some very dark moments. But I have done all I can to bring some kind of justice for James and everyone else.
James had his life taken away from him in the most evil and barbaric fashion, and he was robbed of his bright and happy future. I sometimes doubt whether he has the same human rights as the terrorists.
We should all remember that pain has no nationality and no borders, but neither does the love of the human heart.
I recall seeing the number of body bags laid out and each had a story behind it, a life lost in a moment of senseless violence.
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