Abuse inquiry to last 2.5 years

A resultant report into historical abuse must be submitted to the Executive within six months of the conclusion of the inquiry.

Work is currently ongoing to locate a Londonderry office for the Northern Ireland abuse forum in order to facilitate victims and survivors wishing to contribute.

UUP MLA Tom Elliott asked whether any time limits have been set on how long the Inquiry into Historical Institutional Abuse will take; and what are the estimated costs.

The OFMDFM Ministers Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness replied: “On September 29, 2011, the Executive announced the establishment of an Inquiry and Investigation into Historical Institutional Abuse here.

“The Executive have stated that the Inquiry and Investigation should conclude within two and a half years of its commencement. The Chair of the Inquiry must submit a report of their findings to the Executive within six months of the conclusion of the Inquiry.

“Work is ongoing to scope the estimated costs for the Inquiry and Investigation and secure the necessary financial approvals. Estimated costs are therefore not available at this time.”