Police Service of Northern Ireland Response to Police Ombudsman investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack at La Mon House on Friday 17 February 1978

Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson, Justice Branch said: “In January 2014, the then Chief Constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland made a referral to the Office of the Police Ombudsman for an independent investigation of the events surrounding the La Mon House bombing and we welcome the publication of their report today.

“This report brings to the fore once again the horror and pain for all communities of Northern Ireland’s past and our thoughts today are with the families and friends of those who were killed and injured in this cowardly attack on innocent people socialising on a night out at La Mon House Hotel.  We are very aware of the hurt and anger still being felt by the families of all those who were affected by this indiscriminate bomb attack and we extend our sincere sympathies to all those families.

“We acknowledge the historic issues identified in the report concerning records management in this investigation however this was at a time that predated the introduction of the computerised Home Office Large Major Enquiry System (HOLMES) system.


“While the Police Ombudsman’s report has identified some investigative failings it also highlights that the investigation was well resourced, comprehensive and effective. The report has found that police held no intelligence prior to the attack that could have prevented it and also found that there was no evidence that any persons were protected from prosecution. 

 “I would also like to reflect on the courage, compassion and professionalism and of the police officers who responded to the scene of the bombing.  The difficult and challenging circumstances they faced when dealing with the victims and survivors represented the highest of standards and I welcome the fact that the Police Ombudsman has highlighted this in the report.”