John Larkin must be the most unpopular person in Northern Ireland. His proposal to end to all Troubles-related investigations and prosecutions has outraged victims across the political divide.
The Attorney General isn't a man afraid of controversy but neither is he a fool. I don't believe for one second this is a solo run.
There's the whiff of choreography here. Floating this idea now paves the way for future action. It draws out the sting. Everybody huffs and puffs and gets it out of their system.
And then after Christmas, US envoy Richard Haass comes back with a similar proposal dressed up with token bells and whistles for victims.
Some quango will be set up to 'manage the past' involving international experts, along with tame hand-picked academics, journalists, and local dignitaries – all paid much more than they're worth.
An end to Troubles investigations benefits two groups here: the paramilitary top brass on both sides and the state, particularly the intelligence services. Almost every day now they face a raft of embarrassing revelations.
The British Army's Military Reaction Force killing civilians, Gerry Adams allegedly ordering Jean McConville's murder, state collusion with the UVF's murderous Glenanne Gang to name but a few.
There are strong vested interests in controlling what secrets emerge about our squalid little war.
It's been widely reported that bar NI21, all political parties here vehemently oppose Larkin's proposal. Closer examination shows that's not so. There is considerable ambiguity.
Gerry Adams didn't support or condemn the Attorney General. The DUP said he should stay out of politics but didn't come near calling for his resignation.
Larkin's proposals offer nothing substantial for those thirsting for truth. Don't buy the carrot that in return for ditching prosecutions, the state will open up its archives.
No doubt some government files and intelligence reports will be available but the really important ones will remain locked away.
Do you seriously think we'll be told the truth about the British military's relationship with former head of IRA internal security Freddie Scappaticci?
Will intelligence files be accessible on the current UDA and UVF leaders or the IRA Derry commander who sent Frank Hegarty to his death?
The truth may emerge about a few 'grunts on the ground' – grassroots republicans and loyalists the state has no need to protect.
But we will learn precious little about those at the top of the tree who pulled the strings because that would bring the entire political system crumbling down.
