The South Belfast MLA stated: "I welcome the payment made by the Diocese, relating to homes jointly managed with the De La Salle Order. Although this is long, long overdue, it does show that there is now momentum towards recognising the urgency of these contributions.

"Redress is fundamentally about an acknowledgement of responsibility for the appalling harm and suffering caused by historical abuse of children. It is about reflecting on the lasting impact abuse had on victims, and enabling some kind of healing.

"There is still much work to be done on the financial aspect of redress, but just as importantly other aspects of redress including a proper memorial need to be addressed with similar momentum and urgency. 

"We remain some way from the truly victim-centred process the victims deserve, but these payments do offer some hope."