A senior judge has challenged the Northern Ireland Assembly to agree a support scheme for those bereaved in the Troubles. Mr Justice McAlinden, president of the Victims' Payments Board, expressed his dismay that the current scheme does not cover all bereaved individuals.
Current Scheme Limitations
Speaking to the Stormont Executive Office committee on Wednesday, Mr Justice McAlinden noted that the Troubles Permanent Disablement Payment Scheme has limitations because it was imposed by Westminster after Stormont failed to reach an agreement. He said, "I know that this scheme has its limitations... it does me great upset to think there are a whole category of individuals, namely the bereaved, that I can’t do anything for."
Call for Action
The judge urged politicians to work together to create a dedicated scheme for the bereaved. "We need a scheme for the bereaved, let’s work together and construct a scheme for the bereaved because things can be achieved when people work together," he told MLAs.
Scheme Details and Progress
The scheme, which opened on August 31, 2021, provides annual payments ranging from £2,494 to £12,471 to those living with a Troubles-related disablement. It is set to close to new applicants at the end of August 2026. So far, £139 million has been paid out, with over 13,000 applications received, including approximately 950 from outside Northern Ireland.
Veterans and Awareness
Mr Justice McAlinden highlighted efforts to encourage veterans to apply, stating, "We’re certainly making every effort to ensure... that the scheme is for them as well." Paul Bullick, VPB secretary, noted that an awareness campaign in September 2025 targeted stakeholders across the UK, Republic of Ireland, and beyond.
Impact on Victims
Bullick emphasised the positive difference the scheme has made: "It shouldn’t be underestimated the difference that this scheme has made to victims and their families. We know it has changed their lives for the better."
