Philip Gordon

The unprecedented PSNI data breach last year saw the names, roles and other personal details of all serving police officers and civilian staff inadvertently published on its website.

A review hearing in the High Court has been adjourned until 9 December to create space for mediation either next month or November.

Belfast-based Edwards Solicitors is one of the management solicitors appointed by the court, and partner Philip Gordon said yesterday that the move to explore ways of reaching resolution in the action against the PSNI is welcome news.

Mr Gordon said: “Mediation will look at a possible universal offer to officers and civilians we represent as well as the test cases currently being progressed. Mediation advances the case in a meaningful manner.

“We welcome this development and look forward to engaging constructively with the defendant. Any universal offer made will be open to all plaintiffs but will not be suitable for everyone.

“All of our clients will have been affected differently, and we will advise each client as to whether any universal offer might be right for them. We remain committed to getting the best individual result for each client.”