First hearing of Patrick Finucane Inquiry to take place next month

The first hearing of a public inquiry into the murder of prominent Belfast solicitor Patrick Finucane is set to take place next month.

The 39-year-old was shot dead at his family home in north Belfast in 1989 by the Ulster Defence Association in an attack found by a series of probes to have involved collusion with the state.

Mr Finucane’s widow, Geraldine, and the couple’s three children have been campaigning for decades for a public inquiry to establish the extent of security force involvement.

In 2024 Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn announced the UK Government would establish an independent inquiry into the circumstances of Mr Finucane’s death.

Last June the Government announced senior judge Sir Gary Hickinbottom as chairman of the inquiry.

On Tuesday the Patrick Finucane Inquiry confirmed it will hold its first preliminary hearing in June 2026.

The hearing, that will take place in Belfast on June 10, has been described as a “procedural hearing which will provide an opportunity to introduce the public to the inquiry”.

“In particular, the chair will consider practical issues relating to the conduct of the inquiry’s investigation and future hearings,” a spokesperson said.

The hearing is set to be live streamed for those who wish to watch the proceedings online.

Sinn Fein MLA Deirdre Hargey welcomed the announcement by the inquiry.

“Geraldine Finucane has fought tooth and nail for 37 years for truth and justice for her husband, Pat,” she said.

“The fact that an inquiry will shortly begin its work is testament to the family’s strength, courage and enduring tenacity.

“In what will undoubtedly be a difficult and challenging period for the entire Finucane family, I want to send them my full support and solidarity.

“They continue to inspire families across the north who are searching for answers for their loved ones.”