25/02/2005
Government considers role of Victims Commissioner
The Government has indicated it may be set to move on appointing a Victims Comissioner for Northern Ireland.
Following a question to Secretary of State Paul Murphy from DUP MP Jeffrey Donaldson during Northern Ireland Questions on Thursday, Mr Murphy said he saw “great merit” in proposals for such a role.
“I think that both the Honourable Gentleman [Mr Donaldson] and his party and other parties and other organisations and individuals and groups in Northern Ireland, have looked at the question of a Victims Commission,” Mr Murphy said.
“I also agree with him that the work which has been done by victims groups up and down Northern Ireland are enormously important in bringing about reconciliation in Northern Ireland.”
Welcoming Mr Murphy’s remarks, Mr Donaldson said the creation of such an office was a key aspect of the DUP’s agenda during recent negotiations.
“The DUP has long held the view that the innocent victims of terrorist violence need an independent voice who can act as a strong advocate on their behalf with Government and funders and liaise closely with victims groups across the Province. the Lagan Valley MP said.
Mr Murphy said he hoped to make an announcement on such a role in the near future.
(MB/SP)
Following a question to Secretary of State Paul Murphy from DUP MP Jeffrey Donaldson during Northern Ireland Questions on Thursday, Mr Murphy said he saw “great merit” in proposals for such a role.
“I think that both the Honourable Gentleman [Mr Donaldson] and his party and other parties and other organisations and individuals and groups in Northern Ireland, have looked at the question of a Victims Commission,” Mr Murphy said.
“I also agree with him that the work which has been done by victims groups up and down Northern Ireland are enormously important in bringing about reconciliation in Northern Ireland.”
Welcoming Mr Murphy’s remarks, Mr Donaldson said the creation of such an office was a key aspect of the DUP’s agenda during recent negotiations.
“The DUP has long held the view that the innocent victims of terrorist violence need an independent voice who can act as a strong advocate on their behalf with Government and funders and liaise closely with victims groups across the Province. the Lagan Valley MP said.
Mr Murphy said he hoped to make an announcement on such a role in the near future.
(MB/SP)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
15 January 2007
Victims Commissioner appointment not quashed
A High Court ruling has not quashed the appointment of Bertha McDougall as the Northern Ireland Interim Victims Commissioner. However, in his ruling Lord Justice Girvan said that the appointment was "improper and politically motivated.
Victims Commissioner appointment not quashed
A High Court ruling has not quashed the appointment of Bertha McDougall as the Northern Ireland Interim Victims Commissioner. However, in his ruling Lord Justice Girvan said that the appointment was "improper and politically motivated.
30 June 2026
Commissioner Deepens Engagement With Victims And Survivors Across Northern Ireland
The Commissioner for Victims and Survivors, Joe McVey, recently took part in two significant SEFF events, creating valuable opportunities to reflect, remember and listen first-hand to victims and survivors. He attended 'The Quiet Courage of Women', a service of remembrance, healing and hope at St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral in Armagh.
Commissioner Deepens Engagement With Victims And Survivors Across Northern Ireland
The Commissioner for Victims and Survivors, Joe McVey, recently took part in two significant SEFF events, creating valuable opportunities to reflect, remember and listen first-hand to victims and survivors. He attended 'The Quiet Courage of Women', a service of remembrance, healing and hope at St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral in Armagh.
13 November 2018
Sexual Assault Victims Being Let Down In Northern Ireland
Inspectors have warned that the criminal justice system in Northern Ireland is repeatedly failing victims of sexual violence and abuse, prompting an Alliance MLA to call for urgent action on the issue.
Sexual Assault Victims Being Let Down In Northern Ireland
Inspectors have warned that the criminal justice system in Northern Ireland is repeatedly failing victims of sexual violence and abuse, prompting an Alliance MLA to call for urgent action on the issue.
11 September 2002
Northern Ireland pays tribute to September 11 victims
Belfast has held its own commemoration ceremony for the victims of the September 11 attacks on the US last year.
Northern Ireland pays tribute to September 11 victims
Belfast has held its own commemoration ceremony for the victims of the September 11 attacks on the US last year.
01 March 2005
Government announce new Victims’ and Survivors’ Commissioner for NI
The Government has confirmed it is to put in a place a new Victims’ and Survivors’ Commissioner for Northern Ireland.
Government announce new Victims’ and Survivors’ Commissioner for NI
The Government has confirmed it is to put in a place a new Victims’ and Survivors’ Commissioner for Northern Ireland.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:Cloudy this evening and overnight with a few spots of light rain or drizzle. Mist and fog patches forming in prone spots with light winds. Minimum temperature 13 °C.