Alliance Justice Minister Naomi Long has announced the appointment of Geraldine Hanna as the Victims of Crime Commissioner Designate for Northern Ireland.

The appointment was made following an open competition and Geraldine will take up office on 13 June 2022 for a term of three years with the potential for an extension of up to one year.

Naomi Long said: “The Victims of Crime Commissioner Designate is a new and important role that will give all victims of crime a voice, promoting their rights under the Victim Charter, raising their issues with Government and criminal justice organisations, as well as driving forward systemic improvements for victims of crime and contributing to a more cohesive, coordinated and victim centred criminal justice system.

“I would like to congratulate Geraldine on her appointment. This new Victims of Crime Commissioner Designate role will be challenging, but I am confident that it will strengthen and enhance existing provision to support victims of crime and will help to put the victims’ needs and interests where they should be.

“I know that Geraldine’s extensive experience and skills in working with victims of crime will be invaluable in her new role and I wish her every success.”