'Your dad would be proud of you' – Patrick Kielty’s documentary about the Troubles left a serious impression on viewers
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'Your dad would be proud of you' – Patrick Kielty’s documentary about the Troubles left a serious impression on viewers

PATRICK Kielty's emotional documentary about his father's murder and the Troubles impressed millions of viewers on BBC One last night.

In 'My Dad, the Peace Deal & Me', the Northern Irish comedian spoke about what he has learned since losing his dad, Jack Kielty, to a loyalist gunman when he was just 16.

Three men were convicted in connection with the killing, but were later freed after the Good Friday Agreement was signed a decade later in 1998.

Over 500 prisoners were released following the agreement, which celebrates its 20th anniversary on April 10.

Patrick, now 47, returned to his hometown of Dundrum to see if the historic peace deal has delivered on its pledge to bring about a new Northern Ireland.

The programme saw Patrick meet DUP leader Arlene Foster, whose father was also gunned down during the Troubles, but survived.

Foster refused to vote in favour of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, while Kielty took the opposite approach despite it leading directly to the release of his dad's killers.

"I can’t forgive them for what they did," he said. "But whether or not these people are in jail, it isn’t going to bring my dad back."

Patrick was inundated with messages from viewers who said they were “lost for words” after watching his "intelligent, honest and optimistic" documentary.

One person wrote on Twitter: “Well done Patrick, your dad will be looking down on you tonight a very proud man".

Another said: "Patrick Kielty's balance towards the topic of the troubles is amazing, so forgiving, so humble. Brilliant programme".

While a third added: "Really impressive documentary from Patrick Kielty tonight. Those with heels dug in on both sides should reflect on his and others desire to move on."