An inquest verdict for the deaths of five people killed by the British Army in Belfast's Springhill estate on July 9, 1972, is scheduled for delivery on April 30, 2026.

The victims were Margaret Gargan, aged 13; John Dougal, aged 16; David McCafferty, aged 14; Patrick Butler, aged 38 and father of six; and Fr Noel Fitzpatrick, aged 42, from Corpus Christi Church.

The inquest concluded in 2024, shortly before a deadline imposed by the British government's Legacy Act ended such proceedings for Troubles-related deaths.

Natasha Butler, granddaughter of Patrick Butler, stated that the date marks a key point in a 54-year effort by families for answers on the killings.

She noted that the inquest involved 70 days of evidence and stressed the need to address issues raised before the Legacy Act limited further cases.

West Belfast MLA Aisling Reilly said families campaigned for 54 years to reach this stage and underwent a 70-day inquest process.

Reilly added that Sinn Féin will support the Springhill and Westrock families in their pursuit of truth and justice.