AQW 14821/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 11/09/2024
Answered On Date: 19/09/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Justice, pursuant to AQO 744/22-27, (i) whether her Department had considered potential implementation costs upon commissioning Judge Burgess’ review; and (ii) for her assessment of whether appropriate funding will be secured for an implementation plan in this mandate.

Answer:

When commissioning the review of Criminal Legal Aid the Department did not ask His Honour Tom Burgess CBE to consider proposals within any funding envelope. To do so would have constrained the scope of recommendations he could make.

However, once my officials have reviewed the report and I have clarity on the resource and consequential impact of each of the recommendations, I will know if additional funding is required and will make the appropriate bid at that time.

I continue to seek a fair funding model for the Department within this mandate. Where the budget provided to my Department does not support the delivery of a justice system that citizens need, I will continue to work with Executive colleagues to secure the necessary additional funds.