BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND—Deirdre Owens and her son, Fionntan, are speaking out about their experiences and why they believe they should not be excluded from receiving compensation for relatives of people killed during the Troubles.
In 1996, John Fennell, a founding member of the republican paramilitary group, INLA, was murdered in Bundoran, Co Donegal as part of an INLA feud. He left behind his 11-month-old twin boys and his fiancée, Deirdre Owens.
Deirdre and Fionntan are now advocating for families of paramilitaries to be included in the compensation discussions, reviving a suggestion first raised in the Eames-Bradley report of 2009.
Speaking to The Irish News, Deirdre and Fionntan shared the financial struggles and discrimination they faced after Fennell’s death. Deirdre lost her job and relied on donations of necessities for her twin sons. She emphasized the financial impact of their loss and the hardships she faced as a single mother.
As they continue to advocate for recognition and compensation, they also confront the moral complexities of their situation. Deirdre expressed that she was not fully aware of Fennell’s involvement with the INLA and emphasized that any payments should be seen as a bereavement reparation for families.
Fionntan also shared his perspective, acknowledging that their experience has been different from others and expressing frustration over assumptions made about him and his brother. He pointed out the irrelevance of condemning his father for the purpose of compensation eligibility.
Fionntan emphasized the need for accountability but reiterated that there is no proof of his father’s involvement in any criminal activities, and therefore, the discussion about condemnation is irrelevant.
Their story sheds light on the complexities and challenges faced by families of paramilitaries during the Troubles as they seek recognition and compensation for their losses.