Sinn Féin MLA Linda Dillon has welcomed progress on pensions for victims of the conflict but said that this must be brought forward as part of the package of legacy mechanisms agreed at Stormont House.

The party’s victims and legacy spokesperson said:

“I welcome progress on the pensions issue.

“Many people seriously injured in the conflict have been waiting decades for appropriate support and they have campaigned vigorously on this issue.

“However, I’m concerned that the pension does not cover all those injured as a result of the conflict.

“The Westminster legislation has moved away from the legal definition of a victim.

“It remains Sinn Féin’s view that all victims should be able to access the pension on the basis of need.

“The pension for victims of the conflict was one of a range of commitments made in the Stormont House Agreement.

“The British government continues to stall on the implementation of the legacy mechanisms agreed at Stormont House.

“The families of victims have waited too long for truth and disclosure about the killings of their loved ones. 

“That is unacceptable.

“The cover up and foot dragging by the British government of the role of their military and intelligence services in the conflict must end.”