Lisburn Courthouse to remain open

Claire Sugden MLA delivered the good news in the Assembly chamber today (Tuesday).

Her predecessor, David Ford MLA, had been pushing ahead with plans for the closure of five local courthouses, including Lisburn.

Mr Ford told the Assembly that his decision was based on “unprecedented financial pressures” and the underuse of courthouses.

However, on Tuesday afternoon Ms Sugden told the Assembly that she was reversing the decision taken in the previous mandate.

Highlighting the ongoing changes within the Northern Ireland justice system, the Minister said: “I have concluded that now is not the time to proceed with court closures on the scale envisaged.”

She added: “Given the changing justice landscape, I have concluded that we should retain maximum flexibility within the court estate for the time being. At the same time, I have asked the Chief Executive of the Court Service to establish a review of what the future of court services should look like in 2020 and beyond.”

Thousands of people in Lisburn signed a petition opposing the Northern Ireland Courts Service rationalisation scheme, which proposed that Lisburn Courthouse should close and business be transferred to Laganside Courts in Belfast.

Commenting on the Minister’s announcement that the court will be staying open, Lagan Valley MLA Jenny Palmer said: “This is a very good day for local justice. It was always obvious to me and to the people of Lisburn and Lagan Valley that closing Lisburn Courthouse was a short-sighted decision motivated by cost cutting rather than rooted in the proper administration of justice.

“I welcome the new Minister’s acknowledgement of what we already knew; that Lisburn Courthouse is a vital local institution whose service is needed in Lagan Valley. She has made the right decision for Lisburn and Lagan Valley, which is to be commended.”