AQO 3094/22-27

Mr Peter McReynolds
Alliance Party
East Belfast

Tabled Date: 29/01/2026
Answered On Date: 16/09/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on her engagement with the Northern Ireland Office on the impact of legacy costs on her Department’s budget.

Answer:

ANSWER to AQO 3094 22-27

Engagement with the Northern Ireland Office is ongoing. My officials are to meet shortly with NIO officials for detailed discussion on the legislative, operational, funding and delivery implications arising from the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill.

In preparation for these meetings my officials have asked those organisations which are likely to be affected by the outcomes of the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill for their assessment of their additional resource requirements. The organisations include the Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Service, the Police Service of Northern Ireland, the Legal Services Agency, Forensic Science Northern Ireland, and the Office of the Police Ombudsman. The intention is to demonstrate to the NIO that the impacts span across the justice sector, and that there is an unarguable need for further investment in legacy by the UK Government.

I am clear that meaningful progress on legacy requires operational and funding arrangements that are realistic and sustainable, and they must reflect the continuing role and responsibility of the UK Government.

The Executive cannot afford to meet additional costs without significant impacts on public services, and unavoidable delays in responding to the Legacy Commission, which would further delay justice for victims.

Effective legacy arrangements must work for victims and that can only happen if the arrangements are workable and financially sustainable. It is imperative that the Department of Justice, its agencies and ALBs can deliver our current responsibilities whilst meeting any legal obligations in relation to legacy matters.