First Minister Michelle O’Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly have announced the appointment of a new Commissioner for Victims and Survivors.

The new Commissioner, Joe McVey, will take up the position for a four-year term from 6 October 2025.

First Minister Michelle O’Neill said “We want to congratulate Joe McVey on his appointment to this crucially important role. Victims and survivors deserve a strong, independent voice to ensure their needs are recognised and prioritised and it is vital that we continue to do all we can to support them.  We are confident that Joe McVey will be a dedicated champion and powerful advocate for the rights and needs of all those who have suffered.”

The deputy First Minister Emma Little- Pengelly said “Ensuring that the needs of victims and survivors is at the heart of our trauma informed, victim-centred service is the key component to this vital work.  I wish Joe all the best in his new role as Commissioner as he works to ensure that the voices of our victims and survivors are heard loud and clear, and that they have access to the highest quality mental and physical wellbeing support.”

We wish the new Commissioner well as he takes forward the valuable work in ensuring the needs of victims and survivors continue to be met.

---