Mr Sproule was murdered by the Provisional IRA in 1991, in a case where there are allegations of collusion between the terrorists and members of the Garda.
Mrs Dodds has supported the Sproule family’s quest for truth and justice over many years.
She said, “This significant announcement is testament to the Sproule family’s determination and courage. They have never ceased in their quest to secure truth and justice for the brutal murder of an innocent young man. This decision overturns a previous request that had been rejected last year.
The collusion between members of the Garda and the Provisional IRA has been pointed to previously The then Assistant Chief Constable stated under oath at the Smithwick tribunal that he was satisfied beyond doubt that there was a leak from the Garda to the IRA in respect of Ian's murder. The inquest can shine a fresh light on something which has not received sufficient scrutiny, and Ian’s case in particular has never been properly investigated by authorities in the Republic of Ireland.
The family have highlighted how one suspect in the case lives outside of Northern Ireland and was a recipient of an “on the run” letter. That alone highlights the efforts that have been expended in an attempt to see terrorists evade justice. Whilst an inquest represents a step forward, it is disappointing that there is no such movement across the border where it appears Dublin does not want the truth about such cases of collusion to emerge.”