Part 1: The Historical Institutional Abuse Redress Board Section 9: Procedure
This section sets out how the Panel will make a determination on an application.
	Subsection (1) lists the range of material a Panel can consider when making its determination on an application.
	Subsection (2) means that where it is practicable, a Panel must request information from the appropriate body, society or organisation which managed the institution to which the application relates to verify the accuracy of the information provided in the application. Subsection (8) provides that a Panel does not have to request this information if the applicant already provided evidence to the Inquiry. Subsection (9) confirms that having provided evidence to the Inquiry does not include the Acknowledgement Forum.
	Subsection (3) provides a Panel with the power to allow fresh evidence to be admitted and direct an oral hearing to be held, if it considers it is necessary in the interests of justice to do so. Subsection (4) also allows a Panel to hold an oral hearing in public where it considers it in the interests of justice to do so.
	Subsection (5) means that the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland must allow a Panel access to records of the Inquiry where these are required for the determination of an application.
	Subsection (6) confirms that a person’s entitlement to compensation is not affected by three factors. First, whether or not any matters to which the application relates were reported to the police. Second, whether or not the person by or in respect of whom the application is made engaged with the Inquiry; and third, whether or not the person by or in respect of whom the application is made, has been convicted of an offence.
	Subsection (7) means that the Secretary to the Board must notify the applicant in writing of a Panel’s determination and this must include a summary of the reasons underpinning the panel’s decision.