Announced by the First Minister and deputy First Minister, the establishment of the Commission follows the coming into force of the Commission for Victims and Survivors Act (Northern Ireland) 2008.
The Commissioners designate Brendan McAllister, Patricia McBride, Bertha McDougall and Michael Nesbitt have been appointed to the new Commission.
Dr Paisley said: “We are taking a major step in addressing the needs of victims and survivors and in addressing the legacy of the ‘Troubles’. The formal establishment of the Commission which, together with the record commitment of £36 million to work with victims and survivors, demonstrates the commitment of the Executive and our personal commitment to addressing the legacy of the past and to building a better future for all who have suffered so much.”
Mr McGuinness said: “We are all very aware of the enormity of the challenges which face the new Commission as we emerge from conflict. Much work has still to be done. There are many sensitive issues to be addressed. There are no ready made solutions. I think we can all agree to that and in doing so I would urge all those involved in work with victims and survivors to extend to the new Commission the understanding and support which will be necessary over the months and years ahead.”
Notes to Editors:
- The Commission for Victims and Survivors Act (Northern Ireland) 2008 has received Royal Assent. It amends the Victims and Survivors (Northern Ireland) Order 2006.
- The Victims and Survivors (Northern Ireland) Order 2006 made provision for a Commissioner for Victims and Survivors for Northern Ireland, to be appointed by the First Minister and deputy First Minister, acting jointly.
- Following a public appointments process, the First Minister and deputy First Minister on 28 January 2008, announced to the Assembly the appointment of four Commissioners Designate for Victims and Survivors. However the establishment of the Commission required amendment of the Victims and Survivors (Northern Ireland) Order 2006.
- The Commission for Victims and Survivors Act provides for the Commission for Victims and Survivors in place of a Commissioner.
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