Naomi Long

There have been calls for change following a BBC interview with Lee Thompson, who said he was deeply affected by the graphic footage shown to him during a trial involving the murder of a young child.

Mr Thompson said he did not feel the six free counselling sessions provided over the phone by the Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Service (NICTS) were enough.

Figures released to BBC News NI reveal that 14 people have used the NICTS counselling service since January 2024.

Sinn Féin’s justice spokesperson Deirdre Hargey said it was “imperative that continuous support is provided and this is something that I believe that our justice and health Ministers can work on together”.

She also called on justice minister Naomi Long to “review how our court system selects jurors and ensure that the selection process is fit for purpose”.

Irish Legal News asked the Department of Justice whether it was satisfied with the existing law and practice or whether it agrees that reforms and increased support are necessary.

“Mr Thompson has obviously been through a difficult experience, and I send him my thoughts and best wishes,” Mrs Long said.

“Jury service is undertaken by members of the community as an essential part of the justice process. I understand that some cases may cause upset and entail exposure to a wide range of evidence, some of which may be challenging.

“Consequently, there is help and advice available for jurors including counselling sessions which allow jurors the opportunity to talk through their experience of jury service with experienced counsellors.

“This service, which can be delivered face to face, by telephone or video sessions as determined by the professional counsellors, is free for jurors and completely confidential. I encourage jurors to avail of this service if needed. 

“I understand that jurors who require additional counselling will be signposted to appropriate services.”