A trial linked to the 2022 workplace death of Ian McCollum in Newry is scheduled for next week. The 52-year-old man died in the incident. Barristers must exempt the manslaughter case from their strike action for it to proceed.

Kathryn McCollum, the widow, stated that a delay would harm her health. She noted the family lacks a timeline for the strike's end or a new court date. She fears waiting five years since her husband's death without resolution.

Justice Minister Naomi Long met the McCollum family. Long called on the Criminal Bar Association to show empathy. She described the family's uncertainty as disappointing and their public appeals as disheartening. Long said no family should face such distress.

MLAs from south Antrim and MP Robin Swann sent a joint letter to the Criminal Bar Association. The letter requested the trial proceed on schedule. It highlighted added distress from the strike and noted prior exemptions for other cases. The representatives urged compassion.

The barristers' strike started in January. It halts all Crown Court cases with legal aid defendants. Long ordered an accelerated review of legal aid fees in February. She is reviewing the report's recommendations urgently.

The Criminal Bar Association plans to meet the McCollum family on Thursday. The association called its action a last resort. It seeks Department of Justice steps for a full return to Crown Court work.