Criminal Barristers Vote to Continue Action in Legal Aid Dispute
Criminal barristers extend their action over legal aid fees, impacting serious cases in February.
Criminal Barristers, Legal Aid, Northern Ireland, Justice Minister, Donal Lunny
Belfast: Criminal barristers are still not showing up for legal aid cases. This is part of a dispute over fees. They started this action in January and will keep it going through February.
Since November 2024, they’ve also stopped taking new serious cases. Starting in February, this will include multi-complainant Category D cases.
Donal Lunny, the Bar Council chairman, said this action is unfortunate but necessary. He mentioned that the Department of Justice hasn’t addressed their serious concerns.
He noted that the limited talks have only made things worse. The turnout for the recent vote was high, with nearly 90% supporting the extension of the action.
Lunny emphasized that barristers want to be in court, helping their clients. They deal with complex and serious cases.
He added that this action is a last resort, highlighting the access to justice crisis. The Bar of Northern Ireland is ready to talk with the Department of Justice to find a solution.
Justice Minister Naomi Long has said she wants to reform the legal aid fees system. However, she noted that changes will take time due to the need for new legislation.
Legal aid provides free representation in criminal cases for those who qualify. The CBA claims that fees for legal aid work haven’t increased since 2005, making them worth only half of their original value.