Alliance Justice Minister Naomi Long MLA has welcomed today’s announcement by Mr Justice McAlinden of his intention to open the Troubles Permanent Disablement Payment Scheme for applications from 30 June 2021.

She said: “I have said from the outset, when I agreed my Department could be designated to administer the scheme, I shared the frustration of those who have been waiting for delivery of this important scheme and we would do everything in our power to move things forward.

“Much progress has been made since then and I am grateful to the President and members of the Victims’ Payments Board for their commitment to make the scheme operational.

“Victims and survivors of the Troubles have waited a long time for this scheme and today’s announcement is an important milestone on what has been a long and painful journey for many.”