AQO 1952/22-27

Mr John Blair
Alliance Party
South Antrim

Tabled Date: 01/05/2025
Answered On Date: 26/06/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline any discussions they have had with the UK Government in relation to funding for legacy issues, given it is not a factor in assessing need.

Answer:

We are committed to supporting victims and survivors of the past through the Victims’ Payments Scheme, the work of the Victims and Survivors Service, and the Commission for Victims and Survivors, and the commitments that we have made in the new Strategy for Victims and Survivors. As we have noted previously, the Victims’ Payments Scheme was designed and legislated for by the UK Government, so it is important that it makes a financial contribution to the Scheme’s costs. The Finance Minister is continuing to engage with the Treasury on this matter. Whilst legacy issues are a policy area for the NIO, we will continue to act in the best interests of victims and survivors at all times and we remain fully committed to ensuring that their needs are prioritised.