The Belfast remote evidence centre enables vulnerable or intimidated victims and witnesses to provide their evidence to the court using live link video technology.

Remote evidence centres (RECs) are intended to reduce the trauma that vulnerable witnesses can feel about participating in the criminal justice process. They were a key recommendation in Sir John Gillen’s 2019 report into the law and procedures in serious sexual offences in Northern Ireland.

Lady Chief Justice Dame Siobhan Keegan said: “Initial feedback from witnesses is very positive, with some indicating that without the availability of the REC they would not have given evidence and would have dropped out of the criminal justice process.

“While at an early stage, there is also some evidence to suggest that the availability of the REC and associated lower dropout rates could contribute to a higher number of early guilty pleas. The judiciary are fully supportive of this initiative and would encourage a greater take-up by the profession.”

The Belfast remote evidence centre will be supported by Victim Support NI and NSPCC’s Young Witness Service.

Janice Bunting, chief executive of Victim Support NI, said: “Victims and witnesses tell us that going to court can be a traumatic and stressful time for them, with some describing it as ‘horrendous’. One of the things that contributes to this stress is the fear that they might encounter the defendant or the supporters of the defendant at court.

“We welcome this new facility which provides a safe space for victims and witnesses to give their evidence, in a separate location away from the main court, with no danger of coming into contact with the defendant or anyone associated with the defendant.

“We trust that this facility will be fully integrated into the workings of the courts system and will be made readily available to vulnerable victims and witnesses going forward. Our staff and volunteers look forward to providing the same caring and professional support at the Belfast Remote Evidence Centre as they currently deliver at court.”