Criminal lawyers in Northern Ireland are returning to work today after the outcome of a process of mediation between the Department of Justice, the Bar Council and the Law Society.

In a joint statement published yesterday, the three parties said an agreement had been reached to allow an end to industrial action.

Justice Minister David Ford said the deal would allow the justice system to “continue in an effective and efficient manner”.

Hundreds of cases had been put on hold after criminal lawyers refused to take on new cases as a result of major legal aid reforms announced by the Department.

The joint statement said: “We are pleased to report that an agreement has been reached following a mediation process in respect of the level of cuts under the Legal Aid for Crown Court Proceedings (Costs) (Amendment) Rules (Northern Ireland) 2015.

“All parties have worked to achieve this outcome in the interests of ensuring the continued effective and efficient operation of the criminal justice system in this jurisdiction. These arrangements will ensure the immediate restoration of representation for defendants in the Crown Court in Northern Ireland.”

The details of the agreement are not yet known but barristers and solicitors are set to resume work on legal aid cases today.

Proposed new rules for legal aid payments will be presented to MLAs in the near future.

John Guerin, president of the Law Society, said: “The Law Society of Northern Ireland welcomes the resolution to the ongoing dispute.”

Mr Ford added: “I would like to thank all those involved in the mediation process for their energy in reaching a resolution.

“The immediate return to representation for defendants will allow the justice system to continue in an effective and efficient manner.”