Rachel Langdale KC appointed to chair Northern Ireland Truth Recovery Public Inquiry
Rachel Langdale KC has been appointed to chair Northern Ireland’s Truth Recovery Public Inquiry into Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses.
First Minister Michelle O’Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly announced the appointment on Wednesday.
The inquiry will investigate institutions operating between 1922 and 1995, including their associated pathways and practices in Northern Ireland.
Truth Recovery Public Inquiry to hear evidence from 2027
Langdale is a King’s Counsel with extensive experience in public inquiries, independent reviews and public law.
She has previously worked as counsel to the Thirlwall Inquiry and Nottingham Inquiry and is Head of Chambers at 7BR.
Her formal appointment will follow Royal Assent for the Inquiry and Redress Scheme legislation, which passed its Final Stage at the Northern Ireland Assembly on 30 June.
Oral hearings are expected to begin during 2027, with the inquiry currently expected to publish its report in 2029.
Independent investigation to follow earlier panel
The statutory inquiry represents the next stage of Northern Ireland’s Truth Recovery process.
A non-statutory Independent Panel was appointed in April 2023 and reported in July this year.
The statutory inquiry will have a full range of powers and resources to carry out an independent investigation.
Its final Terms of Reference are due to be developed in consultation with Langdale and published in the coming months.
Consultation remains open
An eight-week public consultation on proposed inquiry rules and regulations for the associated Redress Scheme opened on 23 September.
It will remain open until 17 November 2026.
The Executive Office said the inquiry is intended to be independent and survivor-focused.
Support services are also available for victims and survivors, with more than 600 people having accessed tailored emotional support to date.
Related Link: Truth Recovery consultation