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This document sets out the language we use to describe our work. We have carefully considered advice on this from groups and organisations we have met and their guidance is reflected in the wording we use.

From 1 May 2024, the ICRIR, known as ‘the Commission’, takes on the remit to investigate cases of serious harm or death related to the Troubles/Conflict. From this date, bereaved families, victims and survivors, and certain public authorities, may request that the Commission carries out an investigation. Inquests still being carried out on 1 May 2024 are brought to an end, unless the only part still to take place is the final verdict or findings. These inquests will be concluded by the coroner. As part of its investigations, the Commission may apply a mechanism to test evidence called Enhanced Inquisitorial Proceedings, referred to as EIP. This document explains what EIP are, how they work and the reason they may be used. It sets out how EIP would apply to inquests that were at an advanced stage on 1 May and a request for an investigation is made. In these cases, the Commission will work to avoid unnecessary delays to concluding what the inquest started.

This Operational Policy sets out the details of how Enhanced Inquisitorial Proceedings will operate. The Commission’s Consultation on Operational Design sets out that during the course of the later stages of the Information Recovery Stage and in consideration of the Findings Stage, there may, in certain circumstances where criteria are met, be the need for a further process whereby specific evidence is subject to further testing in order to support the Chief Commissioner in making findings. This element of the investigation is referred to as ‘Enhanced Inquisitorial Proceedings’.

The Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery has agreed arrangements with the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland (PONI), to provide independent oversight of the use of police powers by designated Commission officers in Northern Ireland.

The Commission has published a summary of its approach to designating officers with the powers of a Police constable.

This is the first work plan for the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery. The plan outlines the activity we will undertake in the financial year 2024-25. There is a broad range of work to finish building the foundations that will ensure that the Commission is operating effectively as an independent organisation rooted in our values of integrity, impartiality, openness, accountability, and respect. The plan also begins to outline how we anticipate the work of the Commission will progress in future years.

The Commission’s commitment to obtaining feedback and understanding good practice for human rights means that it has now provided a briefing on its latest proposals to the Assistant Secretary General for Human Rights at the United Nations Office for the Commissioner for Human Rights. This is the start of engagement by the Commission to obtain feedback for best practice in meeting important human rights standards. This document is the slide-pack used during the visit.

The document explains the Commission’s proposed operating model and the stages for how investigations will be carried out. It highlights the end-to-end journey for a requesting individual or family member, from their perspective.

ICRIR's gifts and hospitality register sets out any gifts and/or hospitality offered to its Commissioners.

ICRIR's register of interests sets out the interests of its Board of Commissioners.