Filming in NI courts facing law change delay

Lady Chief Justice Dame Siobhan Keegan described the delay as "disappointing"

Northern Ireland's most senior judge says she's disappointed the broadcast of court proceedings is facing a three-year delay.

A pilot initiative to allow TV cameras inside a Northern Ireland courtroom was launched in February.

However, the Lady Chief Justice Dame Siobhan Keegan said the initiative cannot now move forward because legislative change is needed.

Dame Siobhan said the required law change cannot happen until 2027,

Speaking on Thursday, Dame Siobhan it will "not be possible to progress the necessary legislation until the next Assembly session, that is from mid-2027 onwards."

She added: "This delay is disappointing as it means we cannot build on the momentum we have achieved."

In an address opening the new court year, Dame Siobhan said she was impressed with the footage compiled during the pilot and said she would like to expand coverage.

"Without legislative change I cannot oversee the advances I would like," she added.

"I will continue to promote open justice within the parameters that are open to me, she said.

Broadcasting in courts can already happen in England, Scotland and Wales, in certain circumstances.

Broadcasters, including BBC News NI and Sky News, had taken part in the pilot initiative in Northern Ireland.