First Minister Michelle O'Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly have praised Fiona Ryan's dedication and service as Commissioner for Survivors of Institutional Childhood Abuse (COSICA) following her decision to step down to take up a new role.

They commended her advocacy for victims and survivors of Historical Institutional Abuse (HIA) and her efforts to ensure their voices were heard, including at the recent unveiling of the HIA Memorial at Parliament Buildings.

First Minister Michelle O'Neill said: "I want to sincerely thank Fiona Ryan for the dedication, compassion and determination she has shown during her tenure as the Commissioner for Survivors of Institutional Childhood Abuse. "Victims and survivors of Historical Institutional Abuse have shown immense courage in sharing their experiences and pursuing truth, justice and acknowledgement. Fiona has worked tirelessly to ensure the voices of survivors have been heard and that their experiences remain at the heart of decisions about the support and recognition they deserve. I wish Fiona every success in her new role.

"Our focus now is to ensure that victims and survivors continue to receive consistency of support through the COSICA Office while future arrangements are considered."

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: "Victims and survivors of Historical Institutional Abuse have shown extraordinary courage and resilience in sharing their experiences and seeking recognition, justice and support.

"Throughout her tenure, the Commissioner has played an important role in championing their interests, amplifying their voices and highlighting the issues that matter most to them.

"We are grateful to Fiona Ryan for her service, commitment and advocacy, and we wish her every success in the next stage of her career."