Jim O'Callaghan

The establishment of the scheme marks the second phase of the government’s response to the 2024 inquest.

The first phase, which completed in August 2025, concerned the families of those who were unlawfully killed in the 1981 nightclub fire.

The second phase applies to all those survivor beneficiaries of the original Stardust Victims Compensation Tribunal.

Justice, home affairs and migration minister Jim O’Callaghan said: “I am very conscious that the 45th anniversary of the Stardust tragedy is imminent.

“In announcing the details today of phase two of the recognition payments, I want to remember the 48 victims who were unlawfully killed during the terrible events of 14 February 1981 and their families, who continue to deal with the legacy of such a profound and terrible loss.

“I also want to recognise today the survivors who were injured during this horrific event.

“This will fulfil the government’s commitment to implement a two-phased approach to Stardust redress.”

He continued: “I am determined that the process that will now be implemented will be as simple as possible. It will not place a significant burden of proof on survivors, or be overly bureaucratic, and it will be accessible without legal assistance.

“It is not intended to constitute ‘compensation’ for the injuries and trauma sustained by those who survived the fire, as that was the scope of the original tribunal, but instead, what is proposed is a payment which recognises the delays in providing truth and justice. 

“Given the passage of time, it is also of the utmost importance that the proposal does not give rise to any further trauma for applicants. My department will now prepare arrangements for the implementation of this scheme.

“Full details, including the simplified applications process, will be available shortly.”