The Northern Ireland Assembly has given final approval to legislation creating a formal investigation into Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses.
On Wednesday 7 October, the Inquiry (Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses) and Redress Scheme Act (Northern Ireland) 2026 became law after receiving Royal Assent.
This legal milestone follows extensive scrutiny by the Assembly's Committee for the Executive Office which began its review in June 2025.
The Committee engaged extensively with victims and survivors throughout the process, hearing a wide range of testimonies and views before recommending the Bill for passage.
The Act establishes an inquiry covering the period between 1922 and 1995 and sets up a Redress Scheme to support those affected by the institutions.
Rachel Langdale KC is leading the legal framework for the new inquiry, bringing extensive experience from public law roles including counsel to the Thirlwall and Nottingham inquiries.
The Executive Office previously opened an eight-week public consultation on the Inquiry Rules and Redress Scheme Regulations starting 23 September 2026 with a closing date of 17 November 2026.
Oral evidence is expected to commence in 2027, with the inquiry scheduled to report its findings by 2029.
For further information on the legislation and the committee's work, contact Felicity Templeton at the Assembly communications office on 07977 635930 or via email at felicity.templeton@niassembly.gov.uk.