Third institution makes payment to cost of HIA redress
Date published:
A third institution has contributed 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 payment has been received from the De La Salle Order towards the cost of redress.
Welcoming the contribution, First Minister Michelle O’Neill said: “Victims and survivors of historical institutional abuse continue to live with the terrible trauma they experienced as a result of systemic failings.
“While no financial compensation can ever fully rectify the wrongs done, we recognise that for many survivors, these contributions are a crucial acknowledgment of the harm they suffered and an important step in accepting responsibility.
“We therefore welcome this contribution from the De La Salle Order. Following recent commitments from the Good Shepherd Sisters and Barnardo’s, it is encouraging to see constructive dialogue with the institutions gaining momentum. Discussions with the remaining institutions are ongoing, and we remain hopeful of reaching agreements on their respective contributions to the redress and support services.”
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, said: “We are acutely aware of the lasting impact that historical abuse has had on many victims and survivors, and the essential role that accountability plays in their healing journey.
“We welcome the contributions from the De La Salle Order and acknowledge their continued cooperation and constructive engagement.
“As Ministers, we are committed to ensuring that discussions with all relevant institutions are conducted in a manner that is constructive, fair, and equitable. Victims and survivors have been through so much. We know no amount of money can make up for that but it is vital that we do everything we can to ensure their needs are met.”
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.
Notes to editors:
Notes to editors:
- Barnardo’s, The De La Salle Order, Sisters of Nazareth, Sisters of St Louis, The Good Shepherd Sisters, and the Irish Church Missions were identified by the Hart Report as being required to make contributions towards the cost of the Historical Institutional Abuse Redress scheme and specialist support services.
- The Executive Office received a contribution from The De La Salle Order in September 2024.
- Mr Paul Sweeney was appointed as an Independent Facilitator to take forward discussions with the relevant institutions as to an appropriate financial contribution to the overall cost of the HIA Redress Board and specialist support services, as recommended by the Hart Inquiry.
- Media enquiries to The Executive Office press office via email: press.office@executiveoffice-ni.gov.uk.