A memorial plaque honouring victims and survivors of historical institutional abuse has been unveiled at Northern Ireland’s Parliament Buildings in Stormont.

The plaque fulfils the final recommendation of the inquiry led by retired High Court judge Sir Anthony Hart, which published its final report in 2017. It serves as a permanent acknowledgement of children who suffered abuse in residential institutions over many decades.

The unveiling took place on Friday and was attended by victims, survivors, representative groups, families of late victims, First Minister Michelle O’Neill, Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, Assembly Speaker Edwin Poots, and Commissioner for Survivors of Institutional Childhood Abuse Fiona Ryan.

In a statement, Ms O’Neill said the memorial honours victims and survivors, acknowledging the profound wrong done to children who should have been protected. She noted that the plaque’s wording reflects the voices of victims and survivors.

Ms Little-Pengelly stated that victims and survivors have courageously shared their experiences, shaping the memorial and guiding efforts to acknowledge the past and protect children today. She added commitment to remembering those who did not live to see recognition.