Sinn Féin MLA Jemma Dolan has welcomed the passing of legislation which will support victims of sexual abuse when going through the courts.

Speaking after the Committal Reform Bill passed its final stage in the Assembly, the Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA said:  

“The Committal Reform Bill was a key recommendation of the Gillen Review on serious sex offence cases and will make a difference to the lives of victims and witnesses going through the courts.

“The Bill removes the unnecessary and often traumatic experience of victims having to give oral evidence, including cross-examination, at committal proceedings before having to give further oral evidence again at trial. 

“It will also allow for bypassing the traditional committal process in cases relating to serious offences which will significantly speed up the time taken for a case to progress. 

“This legislation will mark a huge improvement in supporting victims and reducing delays in the courts, and I welcome that the Assembly has passed this Bill at Final Stage today.”