First Minister and deputy First Minister appoint Rachel Langdale KC as Truth Recovery Public Inquiry Chair
Date published:
First Minister Michelle O’Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly have announced the appointment of Rachel Langdale KC as Chair of the Truth Recovery Public Inquiry into Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses (1922-1995).
Rachel Langdale KC is a highly respected barrister with extensive experience in public inquiries and complex investigations. Her appointment reflects the Executive’s commitment to ensuring the inquiry is independent and survivor focused.
Notes to editors:
- The Truth Recovery Public Inquiry relates to Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries, Workhouses and their associated pathways and practices in Northern Ireland.
- A key Executive commitment was an integrated truth investigation with a non-statutory Independent Panel, which was appointed in April 2023 and reported in July 2026. This will be followed by a statutory public inquiry with the full range of powers and resources to conduct an independent investigation.
- The Inquiry (Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses) and Redress Scheme Bill passed its Final Stage in the Assembly on 30 June 2026.
- Royal Assent is expected in the coming weeks, which will allow the formal Chair appointment to take place. Oral hearings are expected to commence in 2027 and the Inquiry is expected to report in 2029.
- Rachel Langdale KC is a leading King's Counsel with extensive experience of public inquiries, independent reviews and public law, including as Counsel to the Thirlwall Inquiry and Counsel to the Nottingham Inquiry. She is Head of Chambers at 7BR. For more information, visit: https://www.7br.co.uk/barrister/rachel-langdale-kc/
- A Written Ministerial Statement is available at: https://www.niassembly.gov.uk/assembly-business/official-report/written-ministerial-statements/
- An eight-week public consultation on the Inquiry Rules and Redress Scheme Regulations for Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses was launched on 23 September 2026, and closes on 17 November 2026. For further information, visit: Consultations on Truth Recovery Inquiry Rules and Redress Scheme Regulations | The Executive Office
- The Inquiry’s Terms of Reference will be finalised and published in the coming months in consultation with the Inquiry Chair.
- Victims and survivors can access a range of support services, including tailored emotional support, which over 600 people have accessed to date. More information is available at: support services
- For media queries please contact The Executive Office press office via email: press.office@executiveoffice-ni.gov.uk