Meeting of the Parliament 12 June 2025
I thank Colin Smyth for lodging the motion and for his tireless work in supporting the Fornethy survivors. I give a huge welcome to the Fornethy survivors who are in the public gallery—I know, having engaged with many of them directly, that they have shown remarkable courage. There is an element of frustration—far be it from me to criticise, or be seen to be criticising, processes in any way, but it is a matter of significant frustration that, given the live criminal proceedings in relation to Fornethy house, there are limits on what I can say.
One of the agreements that I made with survivors when we first met was that we would have regular meetings and engagement. Sadly, under clear legal advice, I have been unable to meet again with the group. We have been talking today about the pursuit of justice, and I do not want to do anything that may prejudice or compromise a live criminal case—that would be totally at odds with my desire to see justice.