Geraldine Hanna will remain as Commissioner Designate for Victims
of Crime in Northern Ireland for a further two years, the Justice
Minister has announced.
has announced a two-year
extension to the current term of Ms Hanna, who took up office on
13 June 2022.
She was originally appointed to the role following an open
competition for a term of three years.
A decision has been made to extend her time in post for another
two years until June 2027 when a statutory Commissioner for
Victims and Witnesses of Crime will be appointed.
This will ensure continuity and enable Ms Hanna to carry on the
positive work she has already undertaken during her time in post.
The second year of the extension will coincide with a public
appointment competition being undertaken for a statutory
Commissioner for Victims and Witnesses of Crime.
Minister Long said: “Three years ago, I established a new
role of Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime for Northern
Ireland.
“The objectives of the role were to give a voice to
victims of crime, promote their rights under the Victim Charter,
and raise their issues with Government and criminal justice
organisations.
“I was also keen that the Commissioner would drive
forward system improvements for victims of crime and contribute
to a more cohesive, coordinated and victim centred criminal
justice system.
“I am grateful to Geraldine for all that she has achieved
during her time in office and I am pleased to extend her current
term for a further two years.
“During this time, she will be able to continue to
identify and highlight the issues affecting victims and effect
real change for victims and witnesses within the criminal justice
system.”
Notes to editors:
1. The Commissioner Designate's term will be extended until 12
June 2027.
2. Information in relation to the work of the Commissioner
Designate for Victims of Crime can be found at: https://www.cvocni.org.
