Ms Mary McCallan:

Deputy Ferris asked about a structured and comprehensive approach to dealing with these issues. He mentioned the South African approach of truth and reconciliation. We would say that the Eames-Bradley recommendations are the structured approach. In the discussions within our sector as well as the human rights sector since the report was finalised, people have been of the opinion that, despite the report's limitations, for example, the lack of provision for injured people, the defects could be remedied and the process itself was deep and comprehensive and had buy-in from quite a few victims.

It was unfortunate that, because of the £12,000 proposal put forward, the matter did not progress in the manner people had expected. The view was that is was very much the best starting point we would have if we wanted to build some kind of legacy commission to address these issues. Why did it not receive the attention it deserved and was it an issue of political will? I do not know but that is possible. It is also possible that other things took over and that this was the reason for what happened. I can only echo what Mr. Godfrey said, namely, we get the impression that it is capable of being examined again. Victims and survivors are very much asking whether it can be looked at again. There are many positives to it. People were involved in the consultation relating to it, which is important, and they will want to look at it on that basis.

Deputy Smith referred to a lack of information continuing to inflict pain. This has very much been an issue. As Ms Peake indicated, our referrals have been consistent year on year and there were people who were referred to us on foot of the Eames-Bradley proposals being reported in the media. Issues arose with regard to the information required and how those involved wanted to seek it. In the course of our work we have witnessed the difference it makes to people when their outstanding questions are answered. Obtaining answers does not necessarily give them closure but it does give them the space to put things to one side and develop their lives in a way that encompasses the grief they continue to experience. It also allows them to move on and build other things into their lives, rather than feeling that they are being disloyal to family members by not trying to discover details in respect of what happened to them. In the context of the structure, we would be in favour of the Eames-Bradley proposals with some specific add-ons in respect of injured people. The latter form a large part of our client base.