Hundreds more people could be eligible to apply to a scheme for Troubles victims, it has been claimed, after it emerged that it will not be extended.
The Troubles Permanent Disability Payment Scheme was set up to support those living with physical or psychological injuries sustained during the conflict.
The process for new applications closes on 30 August, though applications made after this date can be considered in exceptional circumstances.
Commissioner for Victims and Survivors Joe McVey said a decision not to extend the scheme after a recent judgement in May, was reflective of a “disconnect between Westminster and the NI Executive in terms of funding victims and survivors”.
McVey had recommended a three to six month extension of the deadline in light of the judgement which changed the scope of who is eligible to apply.
McVey told BBC Radio Ulster’s Good Morning Ulster programme that the “recent judgement changed the landscape and provided an opportunity to say perhaps we need a pause”.
“We are told there might be in the regions of 300-400 people in one group who are saying they have people now who would qualify to apply under the recent judgement,” he said.
“The Secretary of State (Chris Byrant) is the only one who can grant an extension”, but “given that he has only been in the post for three weeks,” he added that he was likely to have been given guidance on the matter.
“This is just one example of victims and survivors being caught in the middle between the “NI secretary, Westminster and Stormont,” he said.
“They’re all sitting back and pointing the finger at the other saying you need to step forward,” he added.
Some £154m has been paid out so far, with 14,000 applications and McVey said about 4,000 had got payments, which he said have been “transformational”.
However, he said the issue is who will foot the bill.
“Everything seems to come down to money, and in that discussion victims and survivors are nowhere near the heart of the discussion.”