orthern Eire’s subsequent victims commissioner has urged to be a “decided champion” in what has been described as a “notoriously tough” function.
As one in every of their ultimate acts in workplace, First Minister Paul Givan and deputy First Minister Michelle O’Neill introduced Ian Jeffers will take up the place for a four-year time period from Could 9.
The appointment comes virtually two years after the earlier commissioner, Judith Thompson stepped, down in August 2020.
Mr Givan’s resignation on Thursday over the influence of the Northern Eire Protocol, which got here into impact at midnight, eliminated each himself and Ms O’Neill from the joint workplace.
Mr Givan stated he wished Mr Jeffers properly in taking ahead “priceless work in making certain the wants of victims and survivors proceed to be met”.
Ms O’Neill added she was “assured that his expertise and expertise will likely be a priceless asset to the work of the Fee in addressing the wants of victims and survivors”.
Mr Jeffers stated intends to spend the time earlier than Could assembly with the fee staff and stake holders describing endeavor a “crucial function at a crucial time”.
“It’s crucial that the voices of all victims and survivors will not be solely heard however heeded in the case of delivering on their wants,” he stated.
“As we method the twenty fifth anniversary of the Belfast Good Friday Settlement it’s time to construct for a future that acknowledges them as important contributors to our society and we be taught from their experiences to make sure this by no means occurs once more.”
Coping with the legacy of Northern Eire’s troubled previous has confirmed one of the vital divisive points between political events.
Victims are at present campaigning in opposition to proposals by the UK authorities to introduce an efficient amnesty over previous crimes within the Troubles.
In a press release one of many largest victims teams Wave stated they look ahead to working with Mr Jeffers and want him properly within the “notoriously difficult” function.
“Given the place we’re in relation to present amnesty proposals, victims and survivors want a powerful and decided champion to signify them on the highest stage,” they stated.
