Extract from a memorandum by Michael Rynne
'The Nuremberg Tribunal - its origins, proceedings and findings'

Viewing the question quite theoretically and generally, one is disposed to feel that the Nuremberg sentences are somehow contrary to the ideals for which this country stands. Our Constitution would not permit any Court in Ireland to try a man on a criminal charge 'save in due course of law' (Art. 38) and it must be clear to almost everyone in Ireland who has troubled to think about it, that the law of Nuremberg is that of the victor - 'killing is no murder'. Irishmen have had plenty of experience of that kind of law in the past and have no great difficulty in recognising it whenever it emerges.

Moreover, being a Christian people, we are probably more inclined than most other peoples - even than those which make a constant profession of Christianity in their daily propaganda - to favour mercy, whether or not justice has been done.

Finally, many of the people in this country, (and abroad) are likely to remember the Government's adamant attitude at the time, before the Nuremberg trials, when the Western Allies endeavoured to secure Ireland's cooperation in their campaign against the Axis 'war criminals'.