Criminal Bar Association Chairman Statement

In response to recent coverage and speaking on behalf of the membership, Gavan Duffy QC, Chairman of Criminal Bar Association stated:

“The Criminal Bar Association has met regularly with the Department over the past two years in an effort to resolve the ongoing issue and avoid any withdrawal of services.”

“Our position remains the same, counsel operating in the most difficult and complex trials, should be paid a professional fee for the level of work and preparation required.”

“Since the introduction of the 2015 Rules, practitioners have determined that they cannot undertake cases in the Crown Court, deliver the same quality of service and satisfy their professional duties for the remuneration set by the Department”.

“This action is not taken lightly by our members; indeed, for many, the financial and personal consequences are stark. Yet it is our responsibility to act in the best interests of the public and the most vulnerable in society who depend on legal aid to assert their rights.

“The reality we face is that these latest reductions means that in standard cases, the fees proposed are now half of what was paid 10 years ago. The present situation is untenable in the long term for all involved including defendants, victims and the justice system as a whole. The Criminal Bar Association stands ready and willing to engage, provided the Department has a realistic resolution to offer. We have yet to see any evidence of this.”

“The resolution following the December meeting of the Bar represents the strength of feeling among practitioners and highlights the grave disappointment that despite concerted efforts on our part, the Department has not offered substantive proposals which amount to fair and reasonable remuneration required to represent our clients properly.”

“Our members are undoubtedly conscious of the financial pressures facing the Northern Ireland budget but it cannot be the case that financial considerations are prioritised over the need for adequate representation for defendants, victims and all users of the criminal justice system.”

information, contact Danielle Black (Communications & PR Officer)

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