The First Minister and deputy First Minister met with the
Co-Chairs of the Truth Recovery Independent Panel to discuss
progress on their work to help victims and survivors.
Ministers were told that, to date, over one hundred people have
provided testimony to the Panel.
The 10-person Panel, led by Co-Chairs Professor Leanne McCormick
and Professor Sean O'Connell, is carrying out an independent
investigation focused on those affected by Mother and Baby
Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses, and their
pathways and practices.
First Minister said:
“Victims and survivors have waited far too long to have access to
the truth, acknowledgement and accountability. We welcome the
progress made by the Independent Panel and would encourage more
people to come forward and share their testimonies.
“It is vitally important that all victims and survivors have the
opportunity to share their experiences, and this process offers a
safe and supportive forum for them.
“I want to thank all those people who have come forward and I
hope it will make others feel empowered to speak to the Panel so
that we can shine a light on this dark and shameful period of our
past.”
Deputy First Minister said:
“The work of the Independent Panel is so important as it is vital
we hear the personal testimonies of those who have been impacted
by what happened in these institutions.
“I welcome the fact that over 100 people have shared their
experience so far but we know there are others who may be
considering making a contribution which is why we have agreed to
extend the timeframe for sharing those experiences by six months.
“It will also allow for the continuation of the Panel's work in
relation to the 4,500 archival items identified, working closely
with the Public Records Office, ahead of the public inquiry.”
Co-Chairs of the Independent Panel said: “We welcomed the
opportunity to provide an update to Ministers and set out the
clear benefits that an integrated investigation, including an
Independent Panel, can provide.
“We have a specialised Testimony Team, who have been trained to
support people in sharing their experiences. We encourage all
those with knowledge or experience of the institutions or their
pathways and practices, to contact our Testimony Team.”
