SDLP East Derry MLA Cara Hunter
She had been probing the Ministry of Justice on the unacceptable lag in NI courts to prosecute cases of sexual assault on children.
Ms Hunter said: “I have questioned Justice Minister Naomi Long on the average time it takes to see cases of child sex offenses brought before our courts.
“I am horrified to have confirmed to me today by the Justice Minister that 2023 saw yet another rise in waiting times, as they climbed to a shameful median of 919 days.
“In effect, this means that the victims of the most heinous crimes in our society are often waiting the better part of three years before they have any chance of receiving justice.
“Moreover, the failure of our courts to deal with these vile crimes in a timely manner leaves our most vulnerable citizens at prolonged risk from abusers who continue to walk free.
“The failure of this government to provide in a timely access to courts further retraumatises those seeking justice.
“As someone who entered politics to serve and protect the most vulnerable members of our society, I am committed to continuing to pressure the Department of Justice until our courts function in the best interests of victims.
“All victims of crimes, especially those who are victim to child sex offences, are entitled to a justice system that operates in their best interests and brings the perpetrators of such crimes to justice in a swift manner.”
Tags: