Coronavirus safety measures cause further setback to legacy inquest schedule

The first of the outstanding Troubles legacy inquests due to be held this year will not now take place before October, the presiding coroner has said.
Laganside Courts in BelfastLaganside Courts in Belfast
Laganside Courts in Belfast

A total of 56 fresh hearings were scheduled following the release of £55 million to the Lord Chief Justice to the NI Department of Justice last year.

However, the coronavirus lockdown has forced the courts to postpone the hearing of evidence while alternatives to the traditional court settings for inquests are explored.

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In a statement on Tuesday, the outgoing presiding coroner Mrs Justice Keegan said her successor, Mr Justice Huddleston will now assume the role.

Justice Keegan said: “We will consider the use of technology to facilitate inquest hearings but we must be mindful of the need to ensure fairness for all involved.

“In particular, virtual hearings may not be suitable for lengthy or complex matters.

“It may be that ‘hybrid’ hearings with a mix of physical hearings and live link will be appropriate. These issues will be addressed in individual cases by individual Coroners with the input of all interested persons.”

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The coroner added: “In the current circumstances I simply cannot be more definitive about the Year One inquests and the sequence in which pending inquests will be held.

“I understand that this will be disappointing for many people including bereaved families.

“Please be assured that work will continue on recovery from this unprecedented situation in a way that is as effective and efficient as possible.”

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