A STORMONT scrutiny committee is aiming to quiz First Minister Arlene Foster and Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill over the ongoing impasse in the roll-out of the victims and survivors pension scheme.
Executive Office committee chairman Colin McGrath plans to recall the group of cross-party MLAs at the beginning of next week as the row over the delay of the scheme's introduction intensified.
Ms O'Neill has been accused by judge Mr Justice McAlinden of ignoring the rule of law by blocking the pension scheme.
The judge also criticised Mrs Foster during proceedings brought jointly by Jennifier McNern and Brian Turley.
Ms McNern lost both her legs in a 1972 IRA bomb attack on the Abercorn Restaurant in Belfast city centre, while Mr Turley is one of the so-called hooded men, who were tortured during interrogation by the British army in 1971.
The victims' payments were approved by Westminster in January but has been delayed by a row over who is entitled.
Sinn Féin has stalled the pension scheme's implementation on the basis that it discriminates against republican prisoners. The party has declined to comment on Justice McAlinden's comments, saying it would be "inappropriate" while the case is ongoing.
Mr McGrath told The Irish News that the judge's comments were "incredibly serious and demand an immediate explanation from the first and deputy first ministers".
"The view from a senior judge that elements within the Executive Office have chosen to ignore their requirement to comply with the rule of law in favour of expressing a political advantage is a kick in the teeth for those who have campaigned for so long," he said.
"On several occasions, we have made clear that a lead department should be nominated to take forward the practical arrangements for implementation of the victims payment scheme – the failure to take action is absolutely irrational."
Alliance deputy leader Stephen Farry said there should be no "political games or brinkmanship" around the issue.
"Naomi Long has offered the Department of Justice as the delivery vehicle for the pension," he said.
"Alongside the provision of guidance, the Northern Ireland Office need to work constructively to address the funding issue."
Ulster Unionist leader Steve Aiken said delays in introducing a payment for what he termed "innocent victims" was "morally indefensible".
“It is utterly shameful that innocent victims have had to seek a judicial review to advance the situation, but yesterday’s comments by Mr Justice McAlinden in Belfast High Court could not be clearer," he said.
