By Irish Echo Staff
The leaders of three main Irish American organizations have renewed their offensive against the U.S. Justice Department subpoenas aimed at the Boston College Troubles archive.
The two year battle has involved a challenge by the Belfast Project researchers Ed Moloney and Anthony McIntyre against what they and the organizations say is the misuse of the U.S-UK Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty.
The Ancient Order of Hibernians, Irish American Unity Conference and Brehon Law Society further point to twenty members of Congress "who not only share their concern, but question Britain's commitment to the Irish peace process."
Said the groups in a statement: The confirmation of Senator John Kerry as Secretary of State and the elevation of Senator Robert Menendez to chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, two who have opposed the subpoenas, has given new strength to the cause.
"These leaders, Kerry & Menendez," stated National President of the AOH, Brendan Moore, "have shown a willingness to listen to our arguments and to test our sincerity
and credibility. When presented with documentation regarding threats to the Irish peace process and to the corruption of American laws, they have recognized our good
faith."
The Brehon Law Society's Robert Dunne said: "The Cameron government efforts to violate American treaties, policies and rights will not end with the death of Dolours Price or the Moloney and McIntyre litigation decision, but with a Senate hearing on the MLAT and the British corruption of its purpose. To that end we have written to Senator Menendez and to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid for the opportunity to be heard."
Attorney Thomas J. Burke Jr., National President of the Unity Conference added: "We invite Americans to join us in expressing to Attorney General (Eric) Holder and to
Secretary of State Kerry strong opposition, not only for this political misuse of the MLAT, but to British efforts to undermine U.S. policy in support of the Irish peace pact."
The subpoenas have been issued by the Justice Department in response to requests originally filed by the Police Service of Northern Ireland.
