ICRIR statement following the government’s update on the NI Troubles Act

“Today’s update on the Legacy Act from the UK government has provided clarity around the role of the Commission and the government’s confidence in its ability to fulfil that role. 

The Commission welcomes the clarity for victims, survivors and their families that the provisions of the Act that were in breach of the ECHR will be repealed.

We have consistently said that all our work must be ECHR compliant and this step is important to achieving that.

The statement from the Secretary of State Hilary Benn on the ability of the leadership of the Commission to deliver “justice, accountability and information” sends out a positive signal to those who have already engaged with the ICRIR and the wider public.   

And we acknowledge the government’s commitment to consult on measures aimed at strengthening the ICRIR’s independence as ‘a significant positive step’ toward growing public confidence. 

Meanwhile we will be continuing with our vital work of investigations which the government has made clear will remain.

Our focus remains on delivering something of worth to those who come to us and we will provide an update on our early work in September.”