Sinn Fein MLA Raymond McCartney slams decision to renew Diplock Court system
SINN Féin MLA Raymond McCartney has blasted the decision to extend the use of non-jury Diplock courts saying it “undermines the principles of the justice system”.
The vice-chair of the Assembly’s justice committee said: “Theresa Villiers has announced her intention to extend the use of non-jury Diplock trials for another two years.
“Our view on this is clear; the use of repressive Diplock courts was unacceptable in the past and is unacceptable today.
“They were part of the failed agenda in the North in the past and have no place in the justice system.
“The right to a trial before a jury of your peers is a basic right of the justice system.
“The British government has announced its intention to hold a full public consultation on the future use of Diplock courts in two years time but given the fact this is the fourth time this power has been extended that does not inspire much confidence.
“Sinn Féin will continue to challenge the use of these unacceptable and unnecessary powers.”
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