Paving the way for a more cohesive way forward

For the past year, the Commission has been subject of judicial review proceedings regarding the appointment of Commissioners. That process has now concluded and our appointments have been upheld.

The Commission welcomes the result of the Judicial Review, but all four Commissioners also wish to be clear that they regret anyone felt it was necessary to seek such a review of their appointments, especially if it reflects an impression that there is no-one in the Commission to represent their interests.

We hope now that those who supported the judicial review will give us the opportunity to prove we are there for them, and to deliver on the commitment we made on the day our appointments were announced, on the 28th of January 2008, when we said:

“For our part, we acknowledge each other’s commitment to victims and survivors and after our initial meeting, we emphasise none of us intends to limit our involvement to any group or sector or geographical area.”

Since then, some 300 victims and survivors have approached us, seeking our help and advocacy. That door remains open to every victim and survivor of our conflict.

As we prepare for a new way of doing business, based upon the Commission, the Forum and a new Victims’ Service, we hope this ruling paves the way for a more cohesive way forward.