Ulster Unionist Leader Mike Nesbitt has welcomed the introduction of a Bill to set up an Inquiry into Historical Institutional Abuse.
The Strangford MLA said:
“Institutional abuse is very different from abuse by an individual. When someone is abused by an individual, they have the comfort of turning to an institution for help, be that their church, theirpolitical party, or community group. But when the group itself is responsible for the abuse, or for covering it up, there is no comfort. Trust and confidence are shattered. Victims feel doubly victimised, first by the incident itself, then by the cover-up.
The processes this Bill is designed to set in motion must recognise that victims and survivors of abuse are not homogeneous, with a common set of needs. Some will require help with their mental health and well-being; some will need assistance ending their position in social isolation; others want to make up on lost opportunities in education, employment and relationships; a number will seek financial compensation, while others will simply want someone in authority to listen to and acknowledge their story.
As Chair of the Committee of the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister, I shall be focused on ensuring this Bill creates a fitting environment for victims and survivors of institutional abuse, many of whom have waited for far too long to have their issues addressed.”
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