20 February 2026
SDLP Executive Office Committee member Sinéad McLaughlin MLA has said the unveiling of a plaque in recognition of historical and institutional abuse victims was an important moment.
She was speaking after the plaque was unveiled at Stormont on Friday.
The plaque was part of the 2017 recommendations of the inquiry chaired by Sir Anthony Hart.
Foyle MLA Sinéad McLaughlin said:
“It was incredibly poignant and meaningful to stand with victims of historical and institutional abuse at Stormont as this plaque was unveiled. Nothing will ever make up for what they went through, or take away the pain that many still live with, but I know this formal recognition was important and long overdue.
“Former SDLP MLA Carmel Hanna was the first politician to call for a public inquiry into historical and institutional abuse and we have stood firmly with victims ever since. It is deeply regrettable that it has taken us nearly 20 years to get to this stage and I know that this has compounded the hurt felt by those affected.
“Today marks another step in a very long journey for victims and survivors of historical institutional abuse. Even now, nearly ten years on from the Hart inquiry the full recommendations have not been implemented and compensation provided by the organisations responsible.
“The greatest tribute we can pay to victims and survivors is to ensure that these failings of the state and these institutions are never repeated and that nobody has to go through such a long and difficult fight for truth and justice.”