Third institution makes payment to abuse redress scheme

A compensation scheme was set up for victims and survivors of historical child abuse in 2019

Three of the six institutions involved in negotiations with the Northern Ireland Executive over redress for victims of historical child abuse have now made payments.

On Friday, Stormont's first and deputy first ministers confirmed the De La Salle Order has contributed towards the cost of the Historical Institutional Abuse Redress Scheme.

Last month, the Executive Office confirmed that The Good Shepherd Sisters and Barnardo's had both given money to the government for the scheme.

The compensation scheme for victims and survivors was set up in 2019.

It followed a public inquiry that reported back in 2017.

The Historical Institutional Abuse Inquiry, led by Sir Anthony Hart, revealed in 2017 the extent of sexual, physical and emotional abuse at homes run by the state, church and charities from 1922 to 1995.

It recommended that those organisations - as well as the Sisters of Nazareth, Sisters of St Louis and the Irish Church Missions - make contributions towards the cost of the redress scheme and specialist support services.

'An important step'

Welcoming the latest development, First Minister Michelle O’Neill said discussions with the remaining institutions are ongoing.

“Victims and survivors of historical institutional abuse continue to live with the terrible trauma they experienced as a result of systemic failings,” she said.

Ms O'Neill added: “Discussions with the remaining institutions are ongoing, and we remain hopeful of reaching agreements on their respective contributions to the redress and support services.”

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: "We welcome the contributions from the De La Salle Order and acknowledge their continued cooperation and constructive engagement".

Both ministers also encouraged all victims and survivors who intend to make an application to the redress board to do so as soon as possible.