Northern Ireland’s ‘Murder Triangle’ (Part 1) : Robin ‘The Jackal’ Jackson and the murders of Tullylish
Aug 13, 2024
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In this captivating discussion, Martin Breen, editor of Sunday Life, and Martin Doyle, author of 'Dirty Linen,' shed light on Tullylish's dark past as part of Northern Ireland's 'murder triangle.' They explore the chilling legacy of Robin 'The Jackal' Jackson, detailing his brutal role in paramilitary violence. The conversation dives into the impact of these events on the community, revealing personal narratives of victims and the complexities of Catholic-Protestant relations during a time of upheaval.
Tullylish, once a peaceful parish, became a 'murder triangle' during the Troubles, witnessing over 20 paramilitary killings.
Robin 'the Jackal' Jackson's notorious immunity from justice raises critical concerns about police complicity in violence during that era.
Deep dives
The Troubled History of Tullaliche
Tullaliche, a small rural parish in County Down, has been significantly impacted by sectarian violence, resulting in the loss of more than 20 lives during the Troubles. The area has been described as a 'murder triangle,' reflecting the brutal murders carried out by both the UVF and the IRA. Notably, Robin 'the Jackal' Jackson, a UDR soldier, is infamous for his involvement in numerous killings, with reports linking him to at least 50. This dark history exemplifies the community's struggle, as many families were left to cope with grief while the wider society moved on, leaving scars that have yet to heal.
The Legacy of Robin Jackson
Robin Jackson, known as a prolific serial killer during the Troubles, was tied to numerous brutal acts, often flaunting his immunity due to alleged connections with security forces. His violent career began with the murder of Patrick Campbell and extended over two decades, which included involvement in the notorious Dublin and Monaghan bombings. Jackson's ability to evade justice, even when linked to specific crimes, raised serious questions about police complicity and systemic failures that allowed such violence to persist unabated. His actions have left a lingering shadow in Northern Ireland's history, illustrating the grim reality of a man who enjoyed a 'license to kill'.
Community Impact and Relations
The impact of violence in Tullaliche transformed community dynamics, where previously integrated Catholic and Protestant residents found themselves grappling with fear and mistrust. Despite the neighborhood's history of coexistence, the brutal murders created rifts and a sense of terror, particularly among the Catholic community. Conversations surrounding how the neighborhood experienced these tumultuous times highlight a deeper understanding of the emotional and psychological toll of the conflict on ordinary families. The historical narrative illustrates a stark contrast to the communal harmony that once existed, underscoring the long-lasting effects of political violence on local relationships.
Tullylish is a quiet rural parish, in the east of county Down. But during the troubles, it was known for being part of a ‘murder triangle’. From the 1970s to the mid-90s, over 20 people in the area were killed by paramilitary violence, with UVF commander ‘The Jackal’ co-ordinating many of these attacks. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sunday Life editor Martin Breen and Martin Doyle, author of “Dirty Linen” - a book about his experiences growing up in Tullylish. This podcast was originally published in November 2023.