First minister Michelle O’Neill and deputy first minister Emma Little-Pengelly met yesterday with Professor Leanne McCormick and Professor Sean O’Connell, the co-chairs of the Truth Recovery Independent Panel, to discuss progress on their work to help victims and survivors.

Ms O’Neill said: “Victims and survivors have waited far too long to have access to the truth, acknowledgement and accountability. We welcome the progress made by the Independent Panel and would encourage more people to come forward and share their testimonies.

“It is vitally important that all victims and survivors have the opportunity to share their experiences, and this process offers a safe and supportive forum for them.

“I want to thank all those people who have come forward and I hope it will make others feel empowered to speak to the Panel so that we can shine a light on this dark and shameful period of our past.”

Ms Little-Pengelly added: “The work of the Independent Panel is so important as it is vital we hear the personal testimonies of those who have been impacted by what happened in these institutions.

“I welcome the fact that over 100 people have shared their experience so far but we know there are others who may be considering making a contribution which is why we have agreed to extend the timeframe for sharing those experiences by six months.

“It will also allow for the continuation of the Panel’s work in relation to the 4,500 archival items identified, working closely with the Public Records Office, ahead of the public inquiry.”

In a joint statement, the co-chairs said: “We welcomed the opportunity to provide an update to ministers and set out the clear benefits that an integrated investigation, including an Independent Panel, can provide.

“We have a specialised testimony team, who have been trained to support people in sharing their experiences. We encourage all those with knowledge or experience of the institutions or their pathways and practices, to contact our testimony team.”