Today, the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 (Remedial) Order is being debated in the House of Commons, marking an important moment in ongoing discussions about how the legacy of the Troubles/conflict is addressed. Ahead of this debate, the Commissioner for Victims and Survivors Joe McVey has written to the Rt Hon Hilary Benn Secretary of State for Northern Ireland to express concern about the increasingly negative and, at times, toxic nature of Westminster debates on legacy issues. These debates are having a direct impact on victims and survivors, including veterans, who are growing more cynical and disheartened as political challenges delay progress.

While the Joint Framework between the British and Irish governments has been met with cautious optimism as a work in progress, there is a real fear that continued political impasse could result in decades of lost opportunity. The Commissioner stresses that any framework and legislation must place victims and survivors at its centre and reflect the diversity of views within these groups, who are not homogenous and are often unheard.

The letter calls on parliamentarians to show courage and determination in delivering fair, transparent, and human rights–compliant processes that treat everyone equally. After many years of missed opportunities, victims and survivors want victim-centred legislation that can build confidence across all communities and contribute to a reconciled and better future.

Click here to read a copy of the full letter sent to the Secretary of State Northern Ireland.

---