Historic abuse victims ‘heartbroken’ at DUP resignation move – Tyrone MLA

VICTIMS of historical abuse will be forced to wait longer for an official apology, as a result of the impending resignation of the DUP First Minister Paul Givan, it has been claimed.

Mid Ulster MLA Linda Dillon said she has already spoken to victims who have been left ‘devastated’ by the DUP move which is in response to the Northern Ireland

“I have been contacted this morning by a number of survivors of historical institutional abuse, and they are devastated,” said the Sinn Féin representative.

“The apology that they have waited decades for, is now being threatened. This is heart-breaking and deeply distressing for all of those who have been so harmed for so long.

“Victims and survivors deserve better.

“These people have been failed time and again. This state has a responsibility not to raise their expectations for an apology and then dash them so carelessly.

“The survivors of Historical Institutional Abuse must get their apology, and it must be delivered by the highest office of our institutions – The Joint First Ministers.”

The official apology had been due to be made via a written statement to the Assembly in March, shortly before the end of this mandate.

The DUP are expected to announce the resignation of First Minister Paul Givan later today (Thursday), it has been reported.

The move will also see the automatic removal of Michelle O’Neill as Deputy First Minister as both positions are jointly held.

It comes after DAERA Minister Edwin Poots ordered the cessation of checks on goods coming from Great Britain.

It is understood other ministers in the Stormont Executive will remain in place to run their respective departments.