Foreword

The Compensation Agency was established on 1 April 1992 and was the first Executive Agency to be set up within the Northern Ireland Office. It is responsible for processing claims made under the Criminal Injuries (Compensation) (Northern Ireland) Order 1988 (for pre-May 2002 claims); the Criminal Injuries Compensation (Northern Ireland) Order 2002 (for post-May 2002 claims); the Criminal Damage (Compensation) (Northern Ireland) Order 1977; and the Terrorism Act 2000.

This Framework Document has been reviewed by the Agency and the Department in line with Cabinet Office Guidance on Framework Documents. This has provided an opportunity for both the Department and the Agency to take a fresh look at the Agency’s aims and objectives, how it was set up and run and to consider how best to develop these arrangements to meet current and future circumstances.

Under this Framework Document, the day-to-day management of the Agency remains the responsibility of the Chief Executive who will be responsible for achieving Ministerial objectives. He and his staff will also be required to meet specific performance targets that will be set each year.

The Agency's record of achievement is impressive as is its ability to respond to the changing circumstances within the Province. The commitment of the Chief Executive and his staff to improve the quality of service they provide to the community is to be commended.

Paul Goggins
Minister of State for Northern Ireland