AQW 9733/22-27 Written question to the First Minister and deputy First Minister

To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister when an Interim Advocate for victims and survivors of Mother and Baby Institutions, the Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses will be appointed.

Asked by Paula Bradshaw MLA on 9 April 2024

  • Answered
  • Written
Tabled
9 April 2024
Answer due by
24 April 2024
Answered
22 April 202413 days after tabling
Department
The Executive Office
Priority question
No

Answer

The Truth Recovery Design Panel Report did not recommend a dedicated Advocate role. Instead, a series of advocacy interventions have included dedicated and specialist support services, the monthly Victim and Survivor Consultation Forum (with an Independent Chair) and the Independent Panel Victim and Survivor Representatives.

There is currently a series of workshops underway with Consultation Forum members which include views on advocacy. There is no immediate plan to appoint a single Advocate role. On completion of this there will be opportunity to consider how the current advocacy model may be enhanced.

Official sources