WATCH: Victims carry the 'remains of justice' to Stormont

By Q Radio

Victims campaigners have taken part in a funeral procession through the grounds of Stormont. 

Dressed in black and wearing sombre face masks they carried a casket holding ‘the remains of justice’ to lay at the door of the Northern Ireland Office. 

Those taking part claimed the cause of death was Brandon Lewis’ proposal for a de-facto amnesty on legacy cases. 

Paul McIlwaine, whose son David was murdered in 2000, says he’s only beginning civil action which is now at risk. 

Last week, MLAs voted to oppose the UK government's proposals for dealing with the legacy of the Troubles.

They would see an end to Troubles-related prosecutions including future inquests and civil actions.

Victims group Relatives for Justice stage a mock funeral for "Justice" at Stormont today. pic.twitter.com/6sq5viZyPS

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) July 29, 2021

The vote does not have a binding effect on the government's plans.

The executive parties, victims' groups and the Irish government have expressed opposition to the proposals, with some labelling them as a "de-facto amnesty".

The proposals, announced by Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis, included provisions for a statute of limitations, a legal mechanism which would bar future prosecutions.

This would apply to former members of the security forces and to former paramilitaries.