Troubles legacy act: Ireland takes human rights case against UK

The Irish government is to begin a legal challenge against the UK government over its decision to offer immunity for Troubles-era crimes.

Critics argued the law gave an amnesty to killers and removed access to justice for victims.

Ireland will bring a case under the European Convention on Human Rights.

The 30-year conflict cost more than 3,500 lives and left thousands more seriously injured.

The legislation also brought an end to all new inquests and civil actions related to the conflict.

In a statement, Tánaiste (Irish Deputy PM) Micheál Martin said: "This decision was taken after much thought and careful consideration.

"I regret that we find ourselves in a position where such a choice had to be made."

He added that the UK government had "pursued legislation unilaterally" despite the concerns of the Irish government and others.

"We are not alone in our concerns. Serious reservations about this legislation have also been raised by a number of international observers, including the Council of Europe's Commissioner for Human Rights and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights," Mr Martin added.

"Most importantly, this legislation is opposed by people in Northern Ireland, especially the victims and families who will be most directly impacted by this Act."

Opponents, including victims groups and Stormont parties, have argued the legacy bill will remove access to justice.

The UK government has argued that the bill is an attempt to draw a line under the events of the past.