Debate contribution: Prisons: Compassionate Temporary Release
Debate contribution by Mrs Naomi Long on .
- MLA
- Mrs Naomi Long
- Party at the time
- Alliance Party
- Date
- 28 September 2026
- Type
- Debate contribution (made as a minister)
- Business
- Oral Answers to Questions
- Heading
- Prisons: Compassionate Temporary Release
- Assembly identifier
- Official Report component 5762067
Read the official Assembly record
Text
First, as the Member is aware, having spoken to the family, I found it really useful to understand, for example, the trauma that has been caused, particularly to Mr Kelly's youngest children, who were not aware of the circumstances of his death. That has had to be explained to them; an appalling thing for any parent to have to do for their child. It has also reawakened a lot of anger and hurt in family members, who have lived with online provocation ever since the murder occurred. That has been incredibly traumatic for them. It was important for me to hear that, and it has influenced how we intend to take forward work. First, I warned the family in advance that questions would be asked today and that the matter might therefore appear in the press again. I also said that, before I announce to the Assembly the arrangements for the review, I will notify family members so that they are aware that I am going to do that. I have also made arrangements for the terms of reference to include contact with not only the Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime but the Kelly family, because their input is vital in this case. Finally, before any of the review's recommendations are reported to the House, I will meet the Kelly family again and inform them of its outcome. That is the very least that we should do.
238 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.
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