An independent review has identified financial management problems, leadership conflicts and low staff morale at the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (ICRIR). The body began operating in May 2024 to investigate deaths and serious injuries from Northern Ireland's Troubles.

The review, conducted by retired Stormont Permanent Secretary Peter May, noted three finance directors in 12 months. It spent £60 million with no completed investigation reports after two years. Some cases paused due to resource shortages.

Nuala O'Loan, former police ombudsman for Northern Ireland, stated the organisation faced fundamental issues. She questioned the progress, noting staff lacked full investigative powers such as surveillance, access to financial or phone data, and cooperation with Ireland's government.

O'Loan served seven years as Northern Ireland's first police ombudsman. She argued the previous government set up the ICRIR to fail by removing key powers late in the legislative process. She called for the Labour government to scrap it and start over.

ICRIR Chief Commissioner Sir Declan Morgan acknowledged the shortcomings. He said the organisation regretted them and committed to fixes. Morgan expected the first report soon, followed by a steady flow.

Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn called the findings unacceptable. He stated the ICRIR board must address them. Benn noted an action plan and oversight committee were established. Reforms in the Troubles Bill will rename it the Legacy Commission.

Sandra Peake, chief executive of Wave Trauma charity, expressed disappointment. She urged quick changes to deliver for families bereaved or injured in the Troubles.