Have your say on support for victims and witnesses

MLA Paul Frew, Assembly Chairperson, Committee for Justice has written a letter encouraging citizens to share their views on the Victims and Witnesses of Crime Bill before 25 September.

As Chairperson of the Assembly’s Justice Committee, I am encouraging people across Northern Ireland to share their views on the Victims and Witnesses of Crime Bill by responding to our Call for Evidence.

The Bill aims to improve the experience of victims and witnesses in our justice system by strengthening their rights as well as improving protections and increasing support for them. 

Proposals include the establishment of an independent statutory Commissioner for Victims and Witnesses, enhanced support for victims of serious sexual offences and better safeguards for those affected by hate crime.

The Justice Committee has an important role in scrutinising legislation - and hearing a wide range of views helps us to understand better how proposed laws could affect people in practice.

We want to know whether the Bill goes far enough, what impact it could have and where improvements might be needed. Your experiences and insights can help shape our consideration of this important legislation and contribute to improving support for victims and witnesses in the future.

Behind every case is a person whose life has been affected by crime. That is why it is so important that we hear directly from those with lived experience, as well as from families, community organisations, support services, legal professionals and anyone else with an interest in the issue.

I would encourage anyone with relevant views or experience to take a few moments to respond to our Call for Evidence and make sure their voice is heard.

Our online Call for Evidence is now open and will close on 25 September. You can respond to it at https://lk.cmte.fyi/vandwocbill 

Or send your written submissions, comments and evidence to the Justice Committee via email at: victimsandwitnessesofcrimebill@niassembly.gov.uk or write to the Committee Clerk, Room 345, Parliament Buildings, Belfast, BT4 3XX  

Kind regards,

Paul Frew MLA

Chairperson, Committee for Justice

Northern Ireland Assembly