Northern Ireland to broadcast some court sentencing proceedings

Justice minister Naomi Long confirms plans for limited broadcasting of sentencing proceedings in Northern Ireland courts to increase transparency and public confidence, with privacy safeguards and judicial discretion preserved.

By Belfast Herald Newsdesk1 min read

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The Department of Justice has announced plans to allow broadcasters to record sentencing remarks in some Northern Ireland courts. This includes proceedings in the Crown Court and Court of Appeal rulings.

Judges would retain discretion to permit or deny camera access to cases they preside over. The move follows a public consultation and builds on a pilot scheme for filming Court of Appeal judgements.

Naomi Long stated the changes aim to improve transparency and public confidence in the justice system. Privacy safeguards and existing reporting restrictions will remain in place.