Explanatory Memorandum

Inquiry Into Historical Institutional Abuse Act (Northern Ireland) 2013

2013 CHAPTER 2

18 January 2013

Commentary on Sections

Section 14: Expenses of witnesses, etc.

This section enables the chairperson, with the approval of OFMDFM, to award reasonable amounts to cover witness costs. These include the legal costs of certain witnesses called to the inquiry. OFMDFM will set out broad conditions under which payment may be granted, and the chairperson will then advise in relation to the individual cases. Reasonable travelling expenses will also be reimbursed for people who come forward to recount their experiences to the acknowledgment forum.

Section 21(1)(c) provides for OFMDFM to make rules in relation to this section.