12/02/2024

New Pilot Scheme Announced To Test Filming NI Appeal Court Judgements

A new pilot scheme to film the deliver of judgments in the Court of Appeal in Northern Ireland, has been announced by the Lady Chief Justice, Dame Siobhan Keegan.

It is understood that during the pilot scheme, none of the judgements will be broadcast, but the filming used to test the process and inform future decisions.

Welcoming the initiative, Justice Minister, Naomi Long, said: "I very much welcome this pilot initiative by the Lady Chief Justice, which represents an important step forward in opening up our courts and engendering a better understanding of the legal system here. I look forward to continuing to engage with her on this pilot scheme, which will help inform further discussion on future possibilities."

Broadcasting in courts can already happen in England, Scotland and Wales in certain circumstances. Any future decision to introduce this in Northern Ireland would require legislative changes to enable it to become embedded in the court process.

Concluding, the Minister said: "I look forward to seeing the evaluation of the pilot scheme and am open to a discussion on any recommendations that might be brought forward. Allowing broadcasting in courts would increase transparency and enable the public to view decisions being made by the judiciary in Northern Ireland. This can only be a good thing."


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