A memorial plaque has been unveiled at Stormont Parliament Buildings to honour victims and survivors of historical institutional abuse in residential institutions over several decades.

The plaque fulfils the final recommendation of the Historical Institutional Abuse Inquiry, also known as the Hart Inquiry, which called for a physical memorial on the Stormont Estate.

First Minister Michelle O’Neill stated that the memorial acknowledges failures by individuals, organisations and the State to protect children, emphasising that the abuse was not the victims' fault.

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly noted that victims' voices have shaped the memorial and continue to inform efforts to protect children.

Assembly Speaker Edwin Poots described the event as an act of recognition, reflection and remembrance, addressing the varied experiences of victims and those who did not live to see the day.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by victims, survivors, representative groups and families of deceased victims.