Source · Select Committees · Northern Ireland Affairs Committee
Recommendation 4
4
Acknowledged
Joint Framework offers reset for Troubles investigations, but raises questions on five-year window.
Conclusion
The Joint Framework and Troubles Bill offer a chance to reset the investigation process for Troubles-related cases. Despite reassurances from ICRIR, some stakeholders continued to have misgivings about the 80 commission’s work. Many families and others have entrusted ICRIR with their cases, however, and the fact that these are continuing–and the courts and both Governments saw no reason why they should not–until the new commission takes up this work demonstrates that in law at least the current approach to investigations was sound. By reopening the five-year window for requesting investigations, the legislation also signals a commitment to giving families greater time and flexibility, although concerns have been raised about the potentially arbitrary point at which the window might close. The reset brings other questions, too, which we set out below. (Conclusion, Paragraph 45)
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the ICRIR's capabilities and ongoing investigations, stating it will do all it can to support the ICRIR in discharging its duties while reforms are considered and implemented.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
Despite the difficult circumstances of its inception, including the declarations of incompatibility made by the Northern Ireland courts in relation to the Legacy Act, the ICRIR was found by the same courts to have wide powers, and to be capable of conducting effective investigations that fulfil human rights obligations in all but a small number of cases. It is within that context that the ICRIR, led by Sir Declan Morgan as Chief Commissioner, is diligently investigating cases on behalf of families who have approached it. As of 13 January 2026, it is our understanding that the ICRIR is handling 113 live investigations. I would like to assure the Committee that the Government will do all it can to support the ICRIR to effectively discharge its duties on behalf of families while the Government’s proposed reforms are considered by Parliament, and as those reforms are put in place during a period of transition to a reformed Legacy Commission.