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The UK Government and the Government of Ireland announced in February 2025 that they would jointly appoint an Independent Expert to carry out a short scoping and engagement exercise to assess whether there is merit in, and support for, a formal process of engagement to bring about paramilitary group transition to disbandment.
In September 2025, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn and Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan appointed Fleur Ravensbergen to the role of Independent Expert. Fleur Ravensbergen took up the role of Independent Expert with effect from 23 September 2025.
The Independent Expert role is within the existing IRC legislative framework and Ms Ravensbergen is expected to complete the scoping and engagement exercise and submit her report by mid-August 2026.
If you would like to contact the Independent Expert, please email enquiries@independentexpert2025.org