AQO 744/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 02/09/2024
Answered On Date: 24/07/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Justice for her assessment of the fundamental review of criminal legal aid in Northern Ireland, reported by Judge Burgess in August 2024.

Answer:

ORAL QUESTION No 8 – AQO 744/22-27

ANSWER

The report by His Honour Tom Burgess CBE on the fundamental review of Criminal Legal Aid in Northern Ireland was received on 23 August 2024. I want to take this opportunity to thank Judge Burgess for the report and his comprehensive engagement with a wide range of stakeholders to gather the evidence necessary to make his recommendations.

My officials are currently working through the report. Once this is complete and there is clarity on the resource and consequential impact of each of the recommendations, I will be engaging with Executive colleagues to bring forward an implementation plan and any necessary primary and secondary legislation.