She was speaking after the introduction of the Victims and Witnesses of Crime Bill to the Assembly, which has now reached its second stage.

She has outlined the Bill’s provision to improve the experiences of victims and witnesses in the criminal justice system.

Minister Long has said: “I have had the privilege of meeting directly with many victims and witnesses of crime who have shared with me their lived experiences of the criminal justice system. For too many, this has caused or added to existing trauma, and this is something I am determined to change.

“The provisions set out in this Bill are therefore informed directly by what victims and witnesses have told us. I would like to thank all those individuals for sharing their experiences, all those campaigning for change, and anyone who has ever taken the time to meet with me or to contact my Department.

“This Bill owes a debt of gratitude to them. Those who have to engage with the criminal justice system often do so at a particularly difficult time in their lives, and this represents a step forward in improving the experience for all victims and witnesses of crime, and in ensuring their voices are heard.

“It also demonstrates progress in reforming the system, and in creating a more victim and witness centred, transparent and protective criminal justice system where victims and witnesses are supported, represented and safeguarded from start to finish.”