Margaret Thatcher

Julie Livingstone one of the 9 children killed by plastic bullets
Julie Lvingstone killed by the British army using plastic bullets in 1981 - just one of the many children killed with impunity during the reign of Margaret Thatcher
Julie Livingstone one of the 9 children killed by plastic bullets
Julie Livingstone killed by the British army using plastic bullets in 1981 – just one of the many children killed with impunity during the reign of Margaret Thatcher

In relation to Ireland Thatcher’s role was an appalling and shameful episode that left in its wake an awful legacy of death and hurt that still remains unsolved. These injustices are as tangible today as they were when committed demanding accountability despite her passing.

 

From the prisons to the streets she had the power to prevent scores of deaths and to resolve conflict. She had neither intention nor inclination to do any.

 

Instead she pursued the policies of war through shoot-to-kill, plastic bullets, collusion, impunity, censorship, and propaganda. She intensified conflict and death.

 

Such is Thatcher’s legacy in relation to Ireland that she ranks alongside Cromwell and Trevelyn.

 

Margaret Thatcher was a war criminal happy in the company of the architects of apartheid in South Africa and dictators of South America such as Pinochet whom she protected from international accountability.

 

However, today we remember all the victims of British State violence – it is a day of mixed emotions. Remember them and their families in the week ahead.