Joint statement issued on NI institutional abuses

Joint statement issued on NI institutional abuses Archbishop Eamon Martin

Archbishop Eamon Martin, along with Church of Ireland Archbishop John McDowell and representatives from other bodies met to discuss the Hart recommendations for victims and survivors of institutional abuse.

In a statement issued, it was said that a range of issues were discussed, including “progress on redress payments and provision of services for victims and survivors”, as well as the “centrality” of the views of victims to an official apology”.

The principles to underpin forthcoming discussions on contributions by the Institutions involved in the ownership and governance of children’s homes to the costs of redress were also discussed.

All parties agreed that “acceptance of responsibility and recognition of the harm done were central to the way forward”, and those present committed to work together to address the apology, memorial, and contributions to the costs of redress in a way that will put “fairness” at the core, as well as will meet the needs of victims and survivors.