Naomi Long

A children’s version of the sexual offences legal advisers (SOLA) pilot was originally expected to be launched in January 2025.

Mrs Long made reference to the scheme yesterday in a statement marking the anniversary of the restoration of the Northern Ireland Assembly and Executive.

“I recently extended the SOLA scheme and will shortly bring forward a similar scheme aimed at children,” the minister said.

“Up to the end of November 2024 the adult scheme provided free legal advice and support to more than 2,000 complainants in serious sexual offence cases.

“The support and advice provided through this scheme is invaluable, ensuring victims have support on their justice journey.”

The introduction of the SOLA scheme was one of the key recommendations arising from the Gillen review, intended to support and empower complainants, lower attrition in serious sexual offence cases and increase overall confidence in the criminal justice system.

In her statement, Mrs Long also reaffirmed her commitment to delivering three pieces of significant legislation before the next Assembly election in 2027.

She said: “Despite the challenges, I aim to deliver on my legislative priorities for the remainder of this mandate.

“Legislation which will reform and modernise the justice system is already progressing in the form of the Justice Bill.

“I also intend to bring forward a Sentencing Bill and a Victims Bill which will include increasing maximum penalties for those convicted of offences causing death or serious injury by driving; review sentencing including in cases such as the Charlotte Murray murder; and will give additional protections for victims of hate crimes.”