Concerns Raised Over ICRIR Review Findings
The Northern Ireland secretary has expressed deep concern regarding the findings of a review into the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (ICRIR), the body responsible for investigating deaths related to the Troubles.
The review identified significant issues within the ICRIR, including problems with financial management, leadership conflicts, and low staff morale.
Hilary Benn stated that the issues uncovered were
"unacceptable and falls below the standards expected".
In response, Chief Commissioner Sir Declan Morgan acknowledged the shortcomings and committed to addressing them, adding
"I am deeply sorry that this has happened on my watch."
Independent Review Details
The independent review was conducted by Peter May, a former Northern Ireland Civil Service permanent secretary. It was commissioned following concerns about the ICRIR's corporate effectiveness and organisational culture.
Regarding the culture within the ICRIR, the report described it as
"toxic, silo working, divided and disrespectful,"particularly in relation to the senior team and their interactions.
While some individuals reported not experiencing or witnessing adverse behaviours, the review noted that
"pretty much everyone recognised there were deep divisions which were damaging the successful completion of work as well as adversely impacting morale and in some cases wellbeing of staff."
Background of the ICRIR
Established to investigate deaths and serious injuries during Northern Ireland's decades-long conflict known as the Troubles, the ICRIR began operating in May 2024. It was created under the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act.
Many victims' groups have opposed the ICRIR, which was introduced by the previous Conservative government. The current Labour government has pledged to replace it as part of a legacy reform package agreed with the Irish government.
Hilary Benn emphasized the commission's purpose, stating
"ICRIR was set up to undertake complex and sensitive investigations relating to deaths and serious injuries during the Troubles."
He further noted the responsibilities of the senior leadership, saying
"Its senior leadership team has a duty to uphold the organisation's values and those of the wider public sector to ensure victims, survivors and their families can have confidence in the organisation's ability to deliver."
Expressing his concerns, Benn added
"I am deeply concerned to see some of the findings in Peter May's review. It is for ICRIR board to take whatever steps are necessary and appropriate to address this."
Strengths and Challenges Identified
The report acknowledged the strengths within the organisation, stating
"The commission has many good people committed to the mission of the organisation and willing to work hard to achieve it."
However, it also highlighted significant challenges, including structural weaknesses caused by governing legislation, financial management and governance problems, and conflicts among senior leaders that are damaging operations and morale.
The review presented 19 recommendations, calling for urgent discussions between the Northern Ireland Office and ICRIR, enhanced financial oversight, and a cultural reset within the organisation.
Commissioner's Response
Sir Declan described the commission as a
"young and developing organisation."
He reassured those seeking assistance from the commission by stating
"I want to assure those that have come to us for help, that none of the recommendations in the review relate to our pursuit of individual investigations."
