Sinn Féin MP for North Belfast John Finucane has today welcomed the consolidation of court business into four courts across the north by Lord Chief Justice Declan Morgan.

Speaking following the announcement, John Finucane said:

“I welcome the announcement by Lord Chief Justice Declan Morgan that court business has again been drastically reduced, with emergency criminal, family and civil business being dealt with only.

“These steps ensure that the safety of all of those who use our courts is paramount, whilst ensuring continued essential access to justice.

“This has been an approach I have personally been advocating as the COVID19 public health crisis continues to intensify.

“There are thousands of people that go through courts across the North on a daily basis and as well as those directly involved in court cases, we also have many civil service and security workers in buildings along with members of the legal profession.

“There is an obligation on all non-essential public services to prioritise the health and well-being of those utilising the services and the workers.”