08/29/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/29/2024 21:57
Two institutions have made contributions towards the cost of the Historical Institutional Abuse Redress Scheme.
First Minister Michelle O'Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly confirmed today that a second contribution has been received from The Good Shepherd Sisters, and Barnardo's has also made a payment.
Welcoming the contributions, First Minister, Michelle O'Neill, said:
"Victims and survivors of historical institutional abuse continue to live with the terrible trauma which was inflicted on them.
"There is no amount of compensation which will ever make up for how they were failed but we have listened to them, and we know that for many, financial contributions from institutions are an important matter of accountability.
"This is, therefore, a welcome move by The Good Shepherd Sisters and Barnardo's. It is important that this momentum is maintained. Discussions with the other institutions are continuing with a view to reaching agreement on their respective contributions towards the cost of redress and specialist services."
Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly, said:
"We are very conscious of the very personal, difficult and unique challenges that many victims and survivors of historical abuse face as a result of their lived experience and the importance of holding those responsible to account.
"We acknowledge the contributions from Barnardo's and The Good Shepherd Sisters and welcome their continued cooperation and constructive engagement.
"Our priority remains securing a fair and equitable approach that meets the needs of victims and survivors. As Ministers, we will do all we can to ensure that discussions with all institutions remain constructive and will continue working towards agreeing further contributions as a matter of priority."
Both Ministers also encouraged all victims and survivors who intend to make an application to the Redress Board to do so as soon as possible, and in advance of next year's April deadline.
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