The Inquiry (Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses) and Redress Scheme Act (Northern Ireland) 2026 became law on Wednesday 7 October.
This marks the completion of the legislative process for the bill introduced to the Northern Ireland Assembly in June 2025.
The Act establishes a formal Inquiry into the institutions operating between 1922 and 1995 and sets up a Redress Scheme for victims and survivors.
The Committee for the Executive Office began scrutinising the Bill in June 2025, engaging extensively with victims and survivors to hear a wide range of testimonies and views.
Once granted, a bill passed by the Assembly becomes law after receiving Royal Assent, which is the final stage in the legislative process.
An eight-week public consultation on the Inquiry Rules and Redress Scheme Regulations opened on 23 September 2026, with submissions closing on 17 November 2026.
The Inquiry is expected to begin hearing oral evidence in 2027 and report its findings in 2029.
Rachel Langdale KC, a leading King's Counsel with experience of public inquiries including the Thirlwall and Nottingham Inquiries, has been appointed as counsel for the Inquiry.
For further information on the Act, contact Felicity Templeton at the Assembly communications office on 07977 635930 or via email at felicity.templeton@niassembly.gov.uk.