The Commissioner for Victims and Survivors for Northern Ireland met with Committee for The Executive Office to provide an update on the Commission’s work and the ongoing needs of victims affected by the Troubles/conflict.

He highlighted the impact of the prolonged absence of a Commissioner alongside the distress caused by recent legacy legislation, which has significantly affected confidence among many victims and survivors. The scale of harm was underscored, with almost one in five adults in Northern Ireland potentially meeting the legal definition of a victim or survivor, and many continuing to experience trauma-related mental health impacts.

The Commissioner outlined key priorities including meeting victims’ needs, ensuring lived experience informs legacy and peace-building processes, and supporting young people to understand the transgenerational impact of the conflict.

Serious funding pressures across victim support services were raised, particularly ahead of the end of PEACEPLUS funding in 2027 and the risk of service gaps as demand increases. He also reiterated the Commission’s advice on a Bereavement Payment Scheme, which remains awaiting ministerial response.

The Commissioner emphasised the need for sustained resources, cross-departmental collaboration and a continued focus on placing victims and survivors at the centre of policy and delivery.

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