Public History project established for the Troubles

The secretary of state for Northern Ireland has announced plans for an independent Public History project relating to the Troubles in Northern Ireland.

As part of the project, up to five historians will be given full access to UK state archives, to provide an independent and authoritative examination of the UK Government’s policy towards Northern Ireland during the Troubles.

Academics Lord Bew and Dr Caoimhe Nic Dháibhéid will co-chair an independent advisory panel representing a range of expertise and historical perspectives. The panel will make recommendations on key details of the project, including the selection of historians to write the ‘Public History’.

Secretary of State, Chris Heaton-Harris, said: “By opening up Government files to independent historians, including the records of previous administrations and those held across different departments and agencies, this Public History will help allow for a fuller examination of the Troubles than has ever been possible before.

“I am grateful to Lord Bew, Dr Caoimhe Nic Dháibhéid and the panel members, whose exceptional knowledge and insight will play a key role in advancing public understanding of Northern Ireland’s difficult past.”

Lord Bew said: “I have long advocated for this Public History, and for opening sensitive information to scholars in the interest of securing a fuller picture of the state’s role during the Troubles.”

“I am delighted to co-chair this varied panel of eminent historians, which is reflective of the broad consultation we have had with over 40 academics. I am grateful to everyone who has taken the time to share their views, which have shaped the form of this project.”