Debate contribution: Inquiry (Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses) and Redress Scheme Bill: Redress Scheme
Debate contribution by Ms Joanne Bunting on .
- MLA
- Ms Joanne Bunting
- Party at the time
- Democratic Unionist Party
- Date
- 2 March 2026
- Type
- Debate contribution
- Business
- Oral Answers to Questions
- Heading
- Inquiry (Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses) and Redress Scheme Bill: Redress Scheme
- Assembly identifier
- Official Report component 5432721
Read the official Assembly record
Text
Preparations for the redress service are progressing well, and the intention is to launch it later this year, subject to the passage of the legislation. In the interim, a shadow redress service has been established in the Department of Justice. That team includes officials with experience from other redress schemes, and they bring valuable expertise in working in a trauma-informed way. The current work is centred on developing the IT system, progressing staff recruitment and developing the support model so that everything is ready to go. The shadow secretary has met the Victims and Survivors Consultation Forum several times and will continue to engage as the application process and support arrangements are further developed. Our officials and the shadow secretary would also welcome the opportunity to brief the Committee on the plans in the coming months. Our collective focus remains on delivering a redress scheme that treats people with sensitivity and dignity, and with the respect that they deserve.
159 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.
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