This page provides an accessible HTML version of the phases of Inquiry.
You can download a PDF version here Phases of the Inquiry
Phase 1 – Scoping Exercise (Spring 2026)
Initial information gathering, including the Call for Evidence to develop a List of Key Issues.
Phase 2 – Core Participant Applications (Summer 2026)
Applications invited from organisations and designation made of ‘Core Participant’ status by the Inquiry who will then have the right to receive disclosure of evidence and make legal submissions.
Phase 3 – Listening Exercise (2026-2027)
Engagement with affected communities to hear their experiences and perspectives running parallel to the formal evidence gathering.
Phase 4 – Formal Evidence Gathering (Rule 9 requests) (from Autumn 2026)
Requests issued for documents and witness evidence from identified material providers, and reviewing the evidence received.
Phase 5 – Disclosure (throughout 2026-2027)
Sharing the formal evidence gathered with Core Participants.
Phase 6 – Further Evidence Requests (Rule 9 requests) (Spring 2027)
Additional requests issued to some individuals and organisations, where required, and in consultation with Core Participants.
Phase 7 – Evidence Analysis and Report Writing (to late 2027)
Reviewing the totality of the formal evidence and the results from the listening exercise in order to prepare a written report.
Phase 8 – Warning Letters (late 2027)
Warning letters issued to any person or organisation who is subject to explicit or significant criticism, allowing them a reasonable opportunity to respond.
Phase 9 – Publication of Report and Online Archive (Early Spring 2028)
The Inquiry publishes its final report, and all ‘relevant’ documents are made available as a digital archive.