A victims' group, Relatives for Justice, voiced concerns about an ongoing "shut down on victims' rights."
Jeffers, who started his four-year contract in 2022, will become the Chief Executive of Co-operation Ireland, a peace-building charity. He refuted claims of abandonment and stressed the continued importance of organizations like Relatives for Justice in advocating for victims and survivors.
Over 100 candidates applied for the Victims' Commissioner role. Jeffers will assume a new role related to the government's Troubles legacy body and expressed his belief in making a more significant impact in his new position. He emphasized the necessity of addressing the legacy of the past in Northern Ireland society.
Jeffers acknowledged the challenges he faced during his tenure, including frustration with the government's Legacy Act. He thanked the people who have worked toward a better future in Northern Ireland.
The process for appointing his successor in the absence of an executive remains uncertain.