The review was launched after the Northern Ireland Assembly passed a motion in July recognising “the discontent of victims” with the process, which was launched in March 2020.

MLAs noted that “delays, the impersonal nature of the judicial process, the disparity of awards, and re-traumatisation are posing difficulties for the victims”.

As of November 2021, a total of 2,199 applications had been received by the redress board. Determinations totalling £32.244 million had been made and £28.846 million paid out in redress.

First minister Paul Givan said: “I welcome the commencement of the review of the HIA redress process, which will consider the experiences of victims and survivors and make the improvements needed.

“Victims and survivors of historical institutional abuse have endured dreadful pain throughout their lives. We owe it to them to ensure they not only get the compensation they deserve, but that the process to receive redress is designed and equipped to meet their needs.

“I, along with junior minister Middleton and junior minister Kearney, met recently with Mr Justice Huddleston, president of the redress board, and I am encouraged by the improvements that have already been made to address concerns raised by the sector. And I want to let victims know that, working alongside them, we are committed to implementing the further improvements identified by this review.”

Deputy first minister Michelle O’Neill said: “Victims and survivors of historical institutional abuse continue to live with the unimaginable trauma and suffering inflicted on them. And while no compensation will never make up for how they were so gravely failed, we must do all we can to support them through the redress process.

“Thousands of victims and survivors have made applications for redress and we know there are many more who have yet to come forward. We must listen to, and act on, the voices and experiences of those who have been through the process to ensure it is compassionate and fit for purpose.

“The needs of victims and survivors will be at the heart of this review, and we are determined to make the improvements that are needed.”