The Commission was established in 2008 to promote and safeguard the interests of victims and survivors of the Troubles/conflict.  Our work is founded on the principles of independence and impartiality informed by lived experience and research informing policy and advice to Government. That responsibility remains as urgent today as it was when the Commission was created.

I was honoured to be appointed as Commissioner taking up post in October 2025 following a 21-month period without permanent leadership. That absence limited the Commission’s ability to advocate effectively at a time when key legislative, policy and legacy activities were progressing, contributing to considerable uncertainty and distress within the victims and survivors sector.

The legacy of the Troubles continues to shape lives today. Thousands were bereaved or physically injured, and many more continue to live with the psychological impact of conflict-related trauma. Recent population survey findings show that a significant proportion of adults here identify as victims and survivors, and many report ongoing impacts on health and wellbeing.

Victims and survivors have carried the heaviest burden of our past, often without adequate recognition or support. Addressing that reality is essential if we are serious about building a peaceful, inclusive and prosperous society.

What the Commission is focused on

Our work is grounded in listening, engagement and objective analysis, and it aligns with commitments to safer communities and trauma-informed systems. Since October, the Commission has:

• Re-established structured engagement with victims and survivors’ groups, including the Victims and Survivors Forum, to listen and build confidence.
• Strengthened relationships with statutory partners, political representatives and oversight bodies across Northern Ireland, Westminster and Dublin.
• Monitored and responded to legislative developments affecting legacy and victims’ issues.
• Continued work to refresh and strengthen the Victims and Survivors Forum, ensuring broad representation in our engagement.
• Reset communications channels to improve clarity, accessibility and understanding of the Commission’s role.

We have also maintained a measured media presence to reinforce the Commission’s independence and ensure accurate, trauma-informed coverage of issues affecting victims and survivors.

Legacy, confidence and support

Legacy remains one of the most challenging and sensitive areas for victims and survivors. Confidence in past processes has been eroded over many years, and there is understandable scepticism about new mechanisms and legislative change.  As these arrangements take shape, it is essential that victims and survivors are not left navigating complex processes without appropriate advocacy, protection, and support. The Commission continues to monitor developments closely and engage with partners to ensure victims’ perspectives are understood and heard.  A long-standing unmet need remains acknowledgement for the bereaved. The Commission’s formal advice on a Bereavement Payment Scheme — developed through extensive engagement with victims’ families and supported across many groups — continues to await a ministerial response.

Looking ahead

In the months ahead, the Commission will continue to:

• Strengthen its evidence base to inform policy and decision-making
• Support meaningful engagement with victims and survivors across all communities
• Influence the implementation of legacy and peace-building arrangements in ways that protect wellbeing and dignity
• Increase accessible public information through clearer digital content, regular newsletters and leadership updates
• Work collaboratively across sectors to ensure victims and survivors remain at the centre of reconciliation and recovery

The Commission exists to ensure victims and survivors are heard, respected and represented. I look forward  to listening carefully, engaging widely and providing clear, impartial leadership on the issues that matter most.

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