Criminal barristers' strike action has stopped all Crown Court cases in Dungannon. Cases from Fermanagh and Tyrone remain unheard. These include serious sexual assaults, catfishing, death by dangerous driving, domestic violence, and grievous bodily harm.

A mother whose child is the alleged victim of a serious sexual assault described the repeated trial adjournments as torturous. She said her child cannot start counselling until legal proceedings end. The family faces a difficult balance between the child's welfare and the need for justice.

The mother called on the Criminal Bar Association to end the strike. She asked barristers to weigh the harm to traumatised victims and families before returning to work.

Justice Minister Naomi Long stated she recognises the pain victims and witnesses suffer from the barristers' withdrawal of services. She called the action unnecessary. Long noted solicitors continue services while negotiating with her department.

Long said she commissioned an Accelerated Review of criminal legal aid fees. The review aims to resolve issues quickly. She conditioned it on the Public Prosecution Service selecting cases to proceed during the strike.

The Criminal Bar Association said the action followed years without fee reviews. It described a crisis in access to justice that burdens barristers and fails victims.

The association noted barristers handle prosecutions and defences in Crown Court. They understand the impact of serious crime on victims. The CBA agreed to exempt priority cases but left selection to the Public Prosecution Service.

The review started on March 6 with an end date no later than April 27. The Lady Chief Justice urged an earlier resolution. The CBA has submitted detailed evidence to the review.