POTENTIAL witnesses to the Ballymurphy massacre have been urged to come forward ahead of the recommencement of inquests into the 10 deaths.
Coroner Mrs Justice Siobhan Keegan yesterday appealed for anyone who was a witness to the shootings to "provide whatever information they can to assist with the inquest proceedings".
The hearings, which are examining the 10 deaths in Ballymurphy in August 1971, are due to recommence on January 21.
In a statement, the coroner welcomed the fact that a "significant number of military witnesses have cooperated and continue to co-operate with this inquest, either directly with the Coroners Service or via the Ministry of Defence".
It added: "She would like to issue a further appeal to all potential witnesses to the shootings, including British Army personnel from the Queen’s and Parachute Regiments, who were present during the relevant time, to come forward and provide whatever information they can to assist with the inquest proceedings.
"The coroner also wishes to make contact with any SIB/RMP veterans who were involved in the initial army investigations in 1971- 1972.
"If you had any involvement in, or were a witness to, the shootings, or if you have other information about the shootings, your information may be of invaluable assistance to the inquests.
"The coroner would therefore encourage you to come forward and make your account known to the Coroners Service for Northern Ireland.
"In making contact you may be asked to provide a statement. You may also be asked to attend the inquest to give evidence, but the necessary arrangements for that will be made at a later stage.
"It should be noted that the coroner will consider all requests for special measures from any potential witness in line with legal obligations."
To contact the Coroners Service, please email legacy@courtsni.gsi.gov.uk or telephone 028 90 446829.
