Legal representatives, MLAs and the Department of Justice met at Parliament Buildings today for a session hosted by the All-Party Group on Access to Justice, which focused on the Justice Bill ahead of its Further Consideration Stage.
The Justice Bill is among the most significant pieces of legislation currently before the Assembly, with far-reaching implications for how justice is delivered and experienced across Northern Ireland. The session gave MLAs a first-hand account of how the Bill’s provisions may affect both those who work in the justice system and those who rely on it.
The event was chaired by Stewart Dickson MLA, Chair of the All-Party Group on Access to Justice, and featured contributions from the Bar of Northern Ireland, the Law Society of Northern Ireland and the Department of Justice.
Speakers examined key areas of the Bill, with the Bar of Northern Ireland addressing taxation reform, while the Law Society of Northern Ireland set out its position on the use of live links in court.
MLAs also had the opportunity to reflect on the Bill’s progress to date as it approaches the next stage of the legislative process.
The All Party Group on Access to Justice Secretariat, the Bar of Northern Ireland and the Law Society of Northern Ireland, jointly said:
“The Justice Bill will have a lasting impact on courts, practitioners and the wider legal system, and it is vital that those who work within the justice sector are able to contribute to its development.
“Legal practitioners see the effects of legislation first-hand, and we welcome the chance to share that experience as the Bill moves towards Further Consideration stage.”
Stewart Dickson MLA, Chair of the All-Party Group on Access to Justice, said:
“It is important that MLAs have the chance to hear directly from those who will be working with the Bill’s provisions day-to-day.
“I am grateful to the Bar of Northern Ireland, the Law Society of Northern Ireland and the Department of Justice for their contributions today. The Group will continue to follow the Bill’s progress closely and remains committed to supporting informed debate as it approaches Further Consideration Stage.”