SDLP Foyle MLA Sinead McLaughlin
MLAs were being briefed by Fiona Ryan, the Commissioner for Survivors of Institutional Childhood Abuse, when the committee meeting had to be stopped as only three MLAs remained present.
Ms McLaughlin apologised to victims following the meeting.
Said the Foyle MLA: “It’s deeply disappointing that an important Executive Office Committee meeting had to be halted on Wednesday because not enough MLAs were present.
“Even more disheartening was this happened when we were receiving a briefing in relation to survivors of institutional childhood abuse.
“I am embarrassed by what took place today – it should never have happened.
“What kind of message does this send out to survivors, who have been often left feeling let down and abandoned during their quest for truth and justice? We were dealing with issues around an apology and redress at this meeting, which need to proceed with the utmost urgency.
“Victims should not have to wait a minute longer and certainly not because MLAs did not turn up to committee, or left during a presentation.
“While I understand the time of year and many MLAs have busy schedules it’s completely unacceptable that this happened.
“When someone signs up to be an MLA they accept they have certain responsibilities and duties they must carry out – they can’t pick and choose what suits them.
“Being an MLA is a unique privilege and the least we can do for our constituents is to show up and do the job we were elected to do.”
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