Frequently Asked Questions

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Key Calendar Dates 

October 2023
Module 2: Core UK Decision-making and Political Governance Public Hearing
April 2024
Module 2C: Core UK Decision-making and Political Governance – Northern Ireland Public Hearing
 
 

FAQs

We understand that you may have many questions in relation to the inquiry. Our legal team are committed to supporting you through this process, a period we understand is defined by grief and sorrow. If you have any questions or concerns and would like to speak to a member of the legal team, please do not hesitate to contact us by email on covidinquiry@paduffy.com or call us today on 02887722102 

Q. Can Northern Ireland have its own Devolved Inquiry?

A. The Northern Ireland Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice believe that while there is a UK-wide Inquiry, a complementary Northern Irish Inquiry should take place. PA Duffy & Co. Solicitors support this and are advising that a complementary inquiry in Northern Ireland should be established as soon as possible. 

Q. Will I be able to participate in the Inquiry? 

A. Yes, the inquiry has formally established a listening exercise called ‘Every Story Matters.’ The Chair has confirmed that the aim of this exercise is to provide an equal opportunity to directly find out the lived experience of as many impacted people as possible. To share your experience please visit the official UK Covid-19 Inquiry website which can be accessed here.

Please note that the Chair has also confirmed that the Inquiry will not consider in detail individual cases submitted to the exercise. Rather, the Inquiry will consider the overarching themes and issues informed by the experiences of those sharing their stories.

In addition, it is the decision of the Chair who to call as witnesses to the Inquiry. A decision based off their experience, to provide a representation of the issues laid down in the Inquiry Terms of Reference. PA Duffy & Co. Solicitors are working tirelessly to ensure that the voices of bereaved families are at the forefront of the Inquiry’s investigation. 

Q. Can I still join the Northern Ireland Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice group at this stage? 

A. Yes, please sign up to join Northern Ireland Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice by contacting northernireland@familiesforjustice.org

For more information on how to formally participate in the inquiry and the options available to you, please visit the Get  Involved  section of our website.

Q. How long will the Inquiry last?

A. The Inquiry currently has no date for completion. While we must note that other inquiries have posed significant timeframes, please be assured that PA Duffy & Co. Solicitors are committed to pursuing an Inquiry timetable that is both adequate and efficient. 

In addition, the Chair, Baroness Hallett has emphasised that the Inquiry will proceed in a timely manner. 

Q. When will the Inquiry report the findings of the module investigations? 

A. The Chair, Baroness Hallett has announced a modular approach to the Covid Inquiry. Therefore, reports will be published at the end of each of module. 

Q. Will the Inquiry make substantive change for the future?

A. The goal of this inquiry is to examine the preparedness for, response to, and impact of the Covid-19 pandemic in the UK. Therefore, the inquiry will produce an evidenced account of what happened to determine accountability for the compelling failures which contributed to suffering, loss and hardship. 

By considering this evidence, the inquiry will make recommendations for the future to ensure that vital lessons are learned to inform preparations for future pandemics. 

Q. How will I be kept updated on the Inquiry process? 

A. As the instructed solicitors for the Northern Ireland Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice, we will keep you updated with incoming information from the Inquiry. 

You can find the latest news updates on our website here

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    Covid 19 Public Inquiry FAQ’s was last modified: April 26th, 2023 by Conal McGarrity