Alliance hits out over Victims Commissioner appointment delay

11.43.37am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 12th Sep 2007

Alliance Party MLA Sean Neeson

Alliance Spokesperson Sean Neeson MLA has blasted the Office of the First and Deputy First Minister for continuing to delay the appointment of a Victims' Commissioner. Mr Neeson received a Written Answer from OFMDFM stating that the appointment will take more time. OFMDFM had previously promised to make the appointment before the recess, but they did not

The East Antrim Assembly Member said: "Its disgraceful that OFMDFM are continuing to delay on appointing a new Victims' Commissioner.

"The voices of victims must be heard and their needs address. This cannot happen until a new Victims' Commissioner is appointed.

"One must question whether or not there is a disagreement over the religious affiliation of prospective candidates. If this is the case then the whole appointment process has become a sectarian sham.

"OFMDFM broke their promise to appoint the Victims' Commissioner before the summer recess, now they continue to be in disarray over this issue."

ENDS