New victims of crime report calls for commissioner, child supports and compensation reform

The 47 recommendations include child-centred justice procedures, better compensation access and improved support for bereaved families

Committee chairman Matt Carthy said: 'A clear message emerged from our engagement: Too many victims face unnecessary challenges in accessing information, support, and compensation'. File picture: Liam McBurney/PA

An ombudsman or a commissioner for victims of crime has been recommended in a report which also calls for specialist supports for child victims.

The Supports and Experiences of Victims of Crime report has been published by the joint committee on justice, home affairs, and migration.

Earlier this year, the committee heard from victims and families affected by crime as part of its work ahead of the preparation of the report.

The document contains 47 recommendations, including the development of a national victims of crime strategy, providing a coherent framework for victims’ rights, supports, and service coordination, alongside the establishment of an Independent victims’ commissioner or ombudsman to promote and protect victims’ rights, monitor standards, and identify systemic issues.

The report is also calling for supports including child-centred procedures and special supports in the criminal justice system for child victims as well as children who have witnessed crimes.

It also seeks improved data collection on child victims and witnesses.

The first recommendation is to place the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme on a statutory footing, and reform of the scheme itself and the Criminal Injuries Tribunal to ensure victims of crime and impacted persons are entitled to access compensation and are encouraged to apply for it.

It comes as the Government’s autumn legislation programme includes the Criminal Injuries Compensation Bill, to place the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme on a statutory basis.

In March, the Law Reform Commission published a report which recommended that a new State body be set up to oversee compensation for victims of violent crime, with the commission saying the current payments system is not fit for purpose.

AdVIC, a support organisation which advocates for victims of homicide, said it particularly welcomes the creation of a victims’ ombudsman or commissioner role, as well as the recommendation for enhanced supports for families bereaved by homicide.

In a statement, the organisation described the report publication as a significant milestone, adding: “We are now eager to see how these recommendations will be implemented and when they will be translated into everyday reality and practice for victims — so that they do not remain only on paper, but become the beginning of important and lasting change.”

Committee chairman Matt Carthy said: “A clear message emerged from our engagement: Too many victims face unnecessary challenges in accessing information, support, and compensation. At a time when people may already be dealing with trauma, injury or bereavement, systems that are difficult to navigate, delays and inconsistent communication can add further distress.”