Historical Institutional Abuse Inquiry report published

The chair of Northern Ireland's public inquiry into historical child abuse has thanked victims for their "courage and determination" in giving evidence.

Retired judge Sir Anthony Hart hailed the bravery of the hundreds who gave evidence ahead of outlining the findings of the four-year probe.

At a publication event in Belfast, he said recalling their experiences would have been "painful and distressing".

"I thank them for their courage and determination," he said.

Evidence from hundreds of witnesses during 223 days of hearings outlined claims of brutality and sex abuse dating back to the 1920s in institutions run by churches and the state.

Sir Anthony has already indicated compensating victims will be among his recommendations.

But it is uncertain when action will be taken as crisis engulfs powersharing at Stormont and as new elections loom.

The public inquiry was ordered by Stormont's ministerial Executive following pressure from alleged victims and similar probes in the Republic of Ireland and elsewhere.