13/05/2013
Scheme To Help Witnesses Communicate
A new pilot scheme to help vulnerable victims, witnesses and defendants communicate more effectively when giving evidence has been launched by the Ministry of Justice.
Justice Minister David Ford launched the scheme today, which will see Registered Intermediaries facilitate communication during police investigations and at trial, between the witness or defendant and others in the criminal justice process.
David Ford said: "I am committed to improving access to justice for everyone and the launch of the Registered Intermediary pilot schemes for both vulnerable witnesses and defendants will assist those who previously may not have had their voices heard.
"In some cases a Registered Intermediary could make the difference between a case getting to court or not. For the accused it would mean that they are able to participate effectively as a witness giving evidence."
The Registered Intermediaries will come from professional backgrounds such as speech and language therapy and social work.
"These formal schemes are new to Northern Ireland, and for the accused will be unique within the UK," Minister Ford continued.
"They are an important step forward in facilitating effective communication, improving access to justice and securing greater inclusion for some of the most vulnerable people in our society. I welcome the support of the relevant criminal justice agencies and practitioners in taking these pilot schemes forward."
(IT/CD)
Justice Minister David Ford launched the scheme today, which will see Registered Intermediaries facilitate communication during police investigations and at trial, between the witness or defendant and others in the criminal justice process.
David Ford said: "I am committed to improving access to justice for everyone and the launch of the Registered Intermediary pilot schemes for both vulnerable witnesses and defendants will assist those who previously may not have had their voices heard.
"In some cases a Registered Intermediary could make the difference between a case getting to court or not. For the accused it would mean that they are able to participate effectively as a witness giving evidence."
The Registered Intermediaries will come from professional backgrounds such as speech and language therapy and social work.
"These formal schemes are new to Northern Ireland, and for the accused will be unique within the UK," Minister Ford continued.
"They are an important step forward in facilitating effective communication, improving access to justice and securing greater inclusion for some of the most vulnerable people in our society. I welcome the support of the relevant criminal justice agencies and practitioners in taking these pilot schemes forward."
(IT/CD)
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