An order has been signed by the Secretary of State granting an extension to a transitional provision contained within the Legacy Act.

This decision was taken at the specific request of the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland.

The original timeframe for this period was set to finish on 30 April 2025.

That date had previously been extended three times by the Government to permit post-investigative activities.

The new deadline established is 31 October 2027.

This additional time will enable the Ombudsman and other investigating bodies to complete tasks in a limited number of remaining cases.

Government officials stated that families need information about their loved ones as quickly as possible.

Current work involves moving forward with the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill to repeal and replace the Legacy Act.