Ulster Unionist MLA Mike Nesbitt has called on the Secretary of State to give a commitment that she will bring forward legislation on redress for victims and survivors of historic institutional abuse if there is no Executive in place when the public consultation closes.
Mike Nesbitt MLA said:
“The long awaited public consultation on redress for victims and survivors of historic institutional abuse will launch today. When the consultation closes in early February 2019, it is important that those who have been waiting so long know that it will not fall into the political vacuum. From the outset the Secretary of State must make a clear commitment that she will take forward this important legislation in lieu of an Executive. It is important that those entering this consultation process can have confidence that there will be action taken quickly at the end, with their views taken into consideration.
“I know that there are victims and survivors out there who are unhappy with parts of the Hart proposals. The Northern Ireland Civil Service is clear that it must consult on those recommendations. However, just because that is what is in place now, does not mean that it will be the final product. It is vital that victims and survivors engage in this consultation process to help shape the scheme into something they are content with.”