Ciaran O'Hare

Mr Justice Colton confirmed that inspections on goods that enter Northern Ireland from Great Britain will continue until legal challenges have concluded.

Mr Poots had told officials to halt the checks last week. The action was part of the DUP’s continued opposition to the Northern Ireland Protocol.

The protocol was agreed between the UK and EU in order to ensure the free movement of trade across the Irish land border in the wake of Brexit. Unionist politicians, however, have been critical of the system in place, saying it damages Northern Ireland’s place in the UK.

Mr Justice Colton said: “There shouldn’t be any doubt or confusion hanging over those civil servants who have to comply with the law.

“I propose to make an order, suspending the order or instruction given by the Minister for Agriculture until further order of this court or completion of these proceedings.”

The development emerged as an unidentified member of Sinn Féin and another individual were given leave to seek judicial review of Mr Poots’ decision.

Solicitor Ciaran O’Hare of McIvor Farrell Solicitors said: “My client is delighted with this decision and is grateful to the court.”

The case has been listed for a full judicial review hearing on 7 March.