The South Belfast MLA has said: “The spring 2025 deadline for completion of three key research projects commissioned by the Interdepartmental Working Group on Historical Clerical Child Abuse in Northern Ireland has came and went without any explanation or published outcomes, and I remain increasingly concerned about the rate of progress in advancing these key pieces of work.

“In January, the Committee for the Executive Office received an oral briefing from departmental officials regarding the Historical Clerical Abuse research programme. We were informed that all work streams were proceeding on schedule, and that the project remained within its intended timelines.

“There was no indication given that any aspect of the research was at risk of delay or disruption. We were assured that the department remained committed to ensuring the final report and recommendations would be published and brought before ministers in advance of the summer, and that survivors would be kept updated.

“These research projects are critically important. They provide a voice for survivors, seek to expose the systemic nature of clerical abuse, and highlight urgent reforms needed to safeguarding practices. With survivors continuing to come forward, it is essential that the research is completed without further delay.

“We need updated and revised delivery timetables from the First Minister and deputy First Minister urgently, transparent reporting on the current status of all three research strands, and reassurance that there will be no further delays.

"This goes beyond policy - it’s about basic decency and justice. Victims and survivors have suffered enough and they deserve the truth, real accountability, and a clear commitment to delivery and doing what’s right.”