THE family of a Co Donegal man shot dead by the RUC almost 50 years ago met with Tánaiste Micheál Martin in Dublin on Friday.
Micchael Leonard (24) was shot after a car chase close to the Fermanagh and Donegal border between Pettigo and Belleek on May 17, 1973.
At the time police claimed that Mr Leonard, who was a disqualified driver, had failed to stop when he got into a car after leaving a shop and that a single shot was later fired during a chase.
Relatives briefed Mr Martin about an ongoing Police Ombudsman investigation and asked how the Irish government can support their campaign.
They also presented him with an updated family report by Fr Joe McVeigh and the charity Paper Trail.
Michael’s brother, John, said: “The family were very grateful for An Tánaiste to make the time to hear the terrible circumstances of Michael’s (killing) by the RUC and offer his support as we prepare for the 50th anniversary of my brother’s killing.”
Mr Leonard’s cousin Fr McVeigh said: “Fifty years is far too long for any family to wait for truth and justice.
“Michael’s poor parents went to their grave without any.”
Ciarán MacAirt, of the charity Paper Trail, which has supported the family, said: “An Tánaiste and the Irish government are well aware that Britain’s pernicious Legacy Bill threatens the family’s basic human rights.
“The family welcomed An Tánaiste’s personal support and advice."
