The Irish parliament is advancing the International Co-operation (Omagh Bombing Inquiry) Bill 2026. This measure permits current and former Irish ministers, Gardai, soldiers, civil servants and government officials to provide sworn evidence to the Omagh Bombing Inquiry.

The inquiry examines the 1998 Real IRA bombing in Omagh, Co Tyrone, which killed 29 people. Chaired by Lord Turnbull, it addresses legal challenges from campaigners on whether UK authorities could have prevented the attack. Hearings resume on September 21 to review bomb construction, warning calls, claims of responsibility, arrests and court proceedings.

The bill establishes a process triggered by a request from Lord Turnbull. A High Court judge in Ireland would oversee evidence collection. Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan stated that assisting a foreign inquiry involves legal complexities to protect state interests and citizens' rights.

Ireland has shared about 20,000 pages of material with the inquiry, mainly from An Garda Siochana, under a memorandum of understanding. O’Callaghan noted the bill targets only this inquiry for quick enactment. Heads of state bodies assess each request individually, with no automatic exclusions for records.

Labour TD Alan Kelly expressed support but raised issues with sections allowing heads of state bodies to decide on privileged information. He described these provisions as vague and subjective, potentially hindering full disclosure. Kelly called for amendments at committee stage and pre-legislative scrutiny.

Kelly urged O’Callaghan to meet victims' families and survivors. He stressed the need for clearer rules to ensure access to records and data.