Alliance Health spokesperson Paula Bradshaw MLA has welcomed the opening of the Historical Institutional Abuse Redress Board, five months after the legislation requiring one was passed.

Anyone who resided in an institution or home between 1922 and 1995, and suffered or witnessed abuse is eligible to apply, with advice being they should contact a solicitor from home to progress their application. Applications can also be made on behalf of someone who has died if the relative is a spouse, civil or co-habiting partner or child.

“The victims of Historical Institutional Abuse had also become victims of the ongoing political gridlock which means that already today’s announcement will come too late for many to get the redress they deserved,” said South Belfast MLA Ms Bradshaw.

“Nevertheless, it is welcome the Board has been established despite the challenging time we are now in. It is to be hoped the work will now continue at pace to ensure this long overdue redress is delivered.

“There is a reasonable timescale in which applications can be made for redress. However, as soon as the current health emergency is over, I would urge those who feel they have a case to contact a solicitor and make an application as swiftly as possible.”