Long extends current term of Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime
Date published:
Geraldine Hanna will remain as Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime in Northern Ireland for a further two years, the Justice Minister has announced.
Naomi Long has announced a two-year extension to the current term of Ms Hanna, who took up office on 13 June 2022.
She was originally appointed to the role following an open competition for a term of three years.
A decision has been made to extend her time in post for another two years until June 2027 when a statutory Commissioner for Victims and Witnesses of Crime will be appointed.
This will ensure continuity and enable Ms Hanna to carry on the positive work she has already undertaken during her time in post.
The second year of the extension will coincide with a public appointment competition being undertaken for a statutory Commissioner for Victims and Witnesses of Crime.
Minister Long said:
“Three years ago, I established a new role of Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime for Northern Ireland.
“The objectives of the role were to give a voice to victims of crime, promote their rights under the Victim Charter, and raise their issues with Government and criminal justice organisations.
“I was also keen that the Commissioner would drive forward system improvements for victims of crime and contribute to a more cohesive, coordinated and victim centred criminal justice system.
“I am grateful to Geraldine for all that she has achieved during her time in office and I am pleased to extend her current term for a further two years.
“During this time, she will be able to continue to identify and highlight the issues affecting victims and effect real change for victims and witnesses within the criminal justice system.”
Notes to editors:
1. The Commissioner Designate’s term will be extended until 12 June 2027.
2. Information in relation to the work of the Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime can be found at https://www.cvocni.org .
3. For media enquiries contact the Department of Justice Press Office at email.
4. The Executive Information Service operates an out of hours service for media enquiries only between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The duty press officer can be contacted out of hours on 028 9037 8110.