NORTHERN IRELAND
UTV

The Historical Institutional Abuse Inquiry has been extended to include three more state-run organisations and the actions of notorious paedophile priest Father Brendan Smyth.

The inquiry, set up in 2013 and chaired by Sir Anthony Hart, has been examining 13 institutions and the child migration scheme to Australia.

On Monday, Sir Anthony announced an extension to his remit to include Fort James and Harberton House in Londonderry, which have both closed, and Hydebank Young Offenders’ Centre in south Belfast

He said: “Today we wish to announce that we are adding three more institutions to the list, and one individual, bringing the total of homes and matters to be investigated to 18.

“Fort James and Harberton House, both statutory homes in Londonderry, will be dealt with together in module five which will take place next month.

“It will be followed by module six which will examine issues…