McKay calls for proper inquest into Rasharkin killing

Speaking after a commemoration was held in Rasharkin recently, North Antrim Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay said: “This was a classic case of collusion and one of many similar cases that claimed lives on either side of the River Bann in the late 80s/early 90s.

“The Casey family never got a proper inquest into Gerard’s death. At the time RUC material was withheld from the initial inquest which in itself speaks volumes.

“A fresh inquest has now been ordered by the Attorney General and whilst this request was initially blocked by the senior coroner who cited ‘national security’ issues as the reason for the suspension, this was lifted in February after a legal challenge.

“The very fact that the coroner has done this has left the families concerned with little faith in him. However what we need now is an assurance that there will be no further blockages being put in place by the coroner or anyone else.

“We need to see a full inquest taking place with access to all relevant RUC and British Government files. We need to have a date for the inquest. 24 years on we need to hear the truth about who and what organisations were involved in the killing of Gerard Casey.”