AQW 50539/22-27

Ms Aoife Finnegan
Sinn Féin
Newry and Armagh

Tabled Date: 03/07/2026
Answered On Date: 15/07/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on any work to establish and roll-out a Mental Health Court.

Answer:

I recognise the importance of ensuring that people with mental health needs are appropriately supported when they come into contact with the justice system.

Previous scoping work on the potential establishment of a Mental Health Court had commenced but was paused as a result of the impact of Covid-19. This involved some early engagement with the Department of Health, including consideration of how such an approach might align with the Substance Misuse Court. However, no alternative model has been developed at this stage. Given the significant funding and resourcing pressures facing both the Department of Justice and the Department of Health, there is unlikely to be progress on the establishment and roll-out of a Mental Health Court at this time.

At present existing departmental approaches to mental health continue as part of normal business. The Department recognises the importance of mental health and wellbeing in supporting better outcomes for people, and this is reflected in wider strategic work to reduce offending and reoffending.

I remain committed to working with Executive colleagues and justice partners to ensure that individuals with mental health needs are appropriately supported, and to considering practical and sustainable approaches that can help improve outcomes and reduce reoffending.