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21/05/2019
SoS Criticised As Victim Compensation Stalled
The Northern Ireland Secretary of State Karen Bradley is facing widespread criticism over delays in compensation payments to victims of historical institutional abuse.
Ms Bradley took the decision to table 11 additional questions to the political parties about the proposed scheme, after agreement had been reached on four questions including increasing the minimum payout from £7,500 to £10,000.
It comes after she faced a backlash just last week for opting to submit the issue to the Stormont negotiation process rather than bringing forward legislation on victim compensation immediately.
Ulster Unionist Party Leader Robin Swann MLA said the further stalling is "outrageous", and called for the proper redress for HIA victims and survivors to be resolved.
The north Antrim MLA commented: "She asked for clarity on four questions and she got a unanimous response from six party leaders. Now she is asking for answers to further questions and it feels like the goal posts are moving.
"I am not sure what approach the NIO are taking because it just seems like a total farce now. The issue of redress for victims of historical institutional abuse has seen parties able to come together in support at a time when there has been a meeting of minds over little else. Why then does the Secretary of State seem so determined to make an absolute hames of taking this forward?
"The victims and survivors have waited too long to see another spanner thrown in the works. Parties want to see this resolved as quickly as possible; the Secretary of State needs to show the same commitment."
Ms Bradley took the decision to table 11 additional questions to the political parties about the proposed scheme, after agreement had been reached on four questions including increasing the minimum payout from £7,500 to £10,000.
It comes after she faced a backlash just last week for opting to submit the issue to the Stormont negotiation process rather than bringing forward legislation on victim compensation immediately.
Ulster Unionist Party Leader Robin Swann MLA said the further stalling is "outrageous", and called for the proper redress for HIA victims and survivors to be resolved.
The north Antrim MLA commented: "She asked for clarity on four questions and she got a unanimous response from six party leaders. Now she is asking for answers to further questions and it feels like the goal posts are moving.
"I am not sure what approach the NIO are taking because it just seems like a total farce now. The issue of redress for victims of historical institutional abuse has seen parties able to come together in support at a time when there has been a meeting of minds over little else. Why then does the Secretary of State seem so determined to make an absolute hames of taking this forward?
"The victims and survivors have waited too long to see another spanner thrown in the works. Parties want to see this resolved as quickly as possible; the Secretary of State needs to show the same commitment."
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
