Minister to launch public consultation on ‘Charlotte’s Law’

JUSTICE Minister Naomi Long has today announced her intention to launch a public consultation on proposals for ‘Charlotte’s Law’.

The consultation follows a review of current law in relation to disclosure of information on the locations of victims’ remains by those convicted of their killing.

The review examined the need for new legislation similar to ‘Helen’s Law’ which was introduced in England and Wales, and whether a bespoke change in the law should be made in Northern Ireland, to be known as ‘Charlotte’s Law.”

The campaign was inspired by the family of murder victim Charlotte Murray, who was from Omagh. In 2019 her fiancée Johnny Miller was convicted of her killing, seven years after she went missing.

The chef has refused to disclose the whereabouts of her body.

Speaking today in the Assembly, Justice Minister Naomi Long said, “I want to pay tribute to the Murray and the Dorrian families. I have been struck by the dignity and patience they have shown throughout my department’s review and, having met with them on several occasions, I want to express my gratitude for their ongoing engagement.

“Their input helped shape the recommendations and gave me a better understanding of the issues and concerns we need to address.

“I hope my statement today will open the conversation again and provide further opportunities for the families to appeal to anyone who has any information to help locate the remains of their loved ones to come forward.”

The consultation, which will go live the week commencing November 29, will provide a summary of the Charlotte’s Law review decisions and seek views on those proposed measures would require legislation for their implementation.

It will be accessible via the nidirect website, citizenspace as well as the Department of Justice website and will run for a period of 10 weeks.