Fiona Ryan has decided to leave her role as Commissioner for Survivors of Institutional Childhood Abuse to take up a new position, the Executive Office has confirmed.

First Minister Michelle O’Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly issued statements acknowledging her service. They said Ryan had worked to ensure that the voices of victims and survivors of historical institutional abuse were heard and that their experiences remained central to decisions about support and recognition.

Both leaders pointed to the recent unveiling of the HIA Memorial at Parliament Buildings as an example of her work in amplifying survivors’ concerns.

O’Neill said Ryan had shown dedication, compassion and determination during her tenure. She noted the courage of victims and survivors in sharing their experiences and pursuing truth, justice and acknowledgement.

Little-Pengelly said the commissioner had championed survivors’ interests and highlighted the issues that mattered most to them. She described Ryan’s role as important in amplifying their voices.

The Executive Office said the immediate priority is to maintain consistency of support through the COSICA Office while future arrangements are considered.