Claire Sugden

Claire Sugden, the independent MLA for East Londonderry who served as justice minister from 2016–17, said the average time taken to conclude a criminal case is currently twice as long in Northern Ireland as in England and Wales.

She also suggested the issue had been exacerbated by the recent barristers’ strike and the threat of repeat action.

Mrs Sugden said: “The delays in our criminal justice system are simply not good enough. Even relatively straightforward cases are taking many months, if not years, to be progressed through the courts.

“While this is happening, victims are forced to relive their experiences, resulting in a re-traumatisation and an inability to move on with their lives. This can lead to deteriorating mental health and a feeling of helplessness.

“Confidence in our judicial system is essential for future victims to want to come forward and pursue justice.”

She added: “The Public Prosecution Service, the police, the judiciary and the Department of Justice all have a role in ensuring this happens and that the current backlog of cases is reduced.

“We need to see action on this as soon as possible to make sure we do not fail those who have been victims of crime.”