Criminal barristers begin 4 week strike over legal aid

Criminal barristers in Northern Ireland have withdrawn from legally-aided Crown Court cases from Monday for four weeks in a dispute over legal aid.

The action takes place until January 31st. It comes after criminal barrister and solicitors staged a one day strike in November.

In a statement, the Justice Minister Naomi Long said she "remained disappointed in the action being taken by the Criminal Bar Association (CBA) which will impact most acutely on the victims and witnesses who are waiting to give evidence and receive justice. The uncertainty caused by the withdrawal of services will only add further to the stress and anxiety they may already be experiencing. "

She added: "This action will also add to existing pressures on the system and exacerbate the delays that my department and justice system partners have been striving to address."

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