You're trying to parse Mr. Inne's words way too closely. Trust me, he is not trying to hint that the journey is basically over. Grammatically speaking, he could have said the same thing this time last year with what was then months to go, that has since turned into a year to go.
Actually, the present perfect verb form is used to describe completed actions or actions/states to being that continue up to the present time. For example, I have had two cups of coffee this morning vs. I have enjoyed coffee all my life. DI’s statement could mean this has been and continues to be a painful journey to many.
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