To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the average length of time taken for the Victims Payment Board to complete Step 5: Determination Process of the Troubles Permanent Disablement Payment Scheme.

The Victims’ Payments Board has advised that it is unable to provide the average length of time taken to complete Step 5. This is due to the complex nature of cases. Cases can also be adjourned for further information / evidence gathering to provide applicants (or their representative) with an opportunity to comment on specific issues or as a result of engaging with applicants (or their representative) to agree a date suitable to all parties for a face-to-face hearing where required.