EXPERT ASSURANCE GROUP FORMED TO SCRUTINISE ICRIR APPROACH TO INVESTIGATIONS

A draft terms of reference for a group to provide external scrutiny was published in September, as part of wider governance proposals for the ICRIR. These terms built on the approach that had been pioneered by Jon Boutcher in Operation Kenova. A final terms of reference for the External Assurance Group are published today.

Kate Meynell will lead work to form the wider group. She has identified a number of skilled individuals to begin forming the group and is publicly seeking Expressions of Interest from those with relevant skills and experience for open recruitment. To undertake its role the group will consist of people who demonstrate considerable experience, background and skills in homicide and terrorism investigation and prosecution; human rights law; victim care and trauma focus; and experience of these areas within Northern Ireland.

Those wishing to put themselves forward for the group should email: EAG@icrir.independent-inquiry.uk with a CV and 750 word statement setting out, with reference to the terms of reference what you would bring to the group. The deadline for expressions is 29 February.

Chief Constable Meynell said:

“The importance of the robust methodology to support investigations that recover information for victims, families and survivors is vital to the work of this Commission. I want to form a group of independently minded experts who can help the Commission develop this new approach to information recovery in a way that is robust and has the needs of victims in full focus.

ICRIR Chief Commissioner, Sir Declan Morgan said:

“This is an important step in ensuring that the Commission’s methodologies and approach are fit for purpose and that we obtain input and challenge from experts.”

“I am grateful to Kate for taking on this independent role to identify and lead a group of experts to hold the Commission to account in how it approaches its investigations.”

The Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery Commission, which was established in December, is now putting in place the staff and processes to begin investigating Troubles-related issues from the summer of this year.

Notes to Editors:

1. Anyone interested in joining the External Assurance Group can apply here: EAG@icrir.independent-inquiry.uk setting out how they meet the criteria. Expressions must be received by 17.00 on 29 February. Kate Meynell will lead the assessment of expressions of interest. While they will be independent of the Commission and not employed, a daily rate may be paid to members of the group appointed through the process as well as any expenses for attendance at meetings.
2. More information on the External Assurance Group can be found in ICRIR’s terms of reference for the group here.
3. Kate Meynell will meet with the Commission at their Board meetings to set out the Group’s views and assessments.
4. A Biography for Chief Constable Kate Meynell can be found here: Chief Constable Kate Meynell | Nottinghamshire Police
5. Other members so far appointed to the EAG include:
   1. Robert Beckley (Assistant Commissioner, Metropolitan Police leading Operation Resolve into Hillsborough)
   2. Mark Tuohey (Defence Attorney, Baker Hostetler)  
   3. Gregor McGill (Director of Legal Services at the Crown Prosecution Service)
      
6. Separately, Martin Pitt has been appointed as the independent member of the Commission’s Audit and Risk Committee. His biography can be found here.
7. Anyone who would like to get involved in the Commission’s early work to define its processes and principles can email us at our Contact page to be added to our mailing list for updates and opportunities to be involved in focus groups and other work.

For more information, please call the ICRIR Press Office on 07966 304271 or email:  press@icrir.independent-inquiry.uk