Publication date:
Senior figures from across the criminal justice system gathered at Parliament Buildings, Stormont on Monday 2 February 2026 for a Public Prosecution Service-led event focused on tackling domestic and sexual abuse and ensuring that all victims are recognised, supported and protected.
The event, Tackling Domestic and Sexual Abuse: Recognising All Victims, was sponsored by MLA Connie Egan and brought together prosecutors, a senior judge, police representatives and victim advocates to examine current challenges and responses within the justice system, and to strengthen collaboration.
Stephen Herron, Director of Public Prosecutions said:
“Domestic and sexual abuse can have a devastating and long‑lasting impact on victims, who often face significant barriers when engaging with the criminal justice process.
“As prosecutors, we approach these cases with care, independence, and objectivity, ensuing all victims are treated with sensitivity and respect. This event allowed us all to reflect on how we recognise all victims and strengthen the collective response to these offences.
“Domestic and sexual abuse are complex, deeply rooted issues that the PPS, or indeed the wider criminal justice system, cannot tackle alone. Meaningful progress depends on sustained collaboration across agencies and across society.”
Mr Herron also set out the importance of continued justice system reform, particularly to address delay, which can add to victims’ trauma.
“There has been considerable improvement in how the system responds to these cases in recent years, but there is clearly more to be done. That is why I am advocating for strategic reforms to the justice system which will directly tackle delay, particularly in the most serious cases.
“Reducing the time from report to trial lessens trauma, reduces the risk of victims withdrawing, and strengthens confidence in the justice process. Justice delayed can so often be justice denied, and we must be firmly committed across the system to addressing this. We also recognise the need for continued investment from government in services that support victims, including those delivered by representative groups.”
The event included contributions from Catherine Kierans, Head of the PPS Serious Crime Unit, a Domestic Abuse Court Prosecutor with the PPS and a senior judge.
A panel discussion and audience Q&A were chaired by Marianne O’Kane, PPS Senior Assistant Director and Victim Champion. Panellists included Geraldine Hanna, Victim of Crime Commissioner Designate, Detective Superintendent Kerry Brennan from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Public Protection Branch, alongside PPS representatives.
Marianne O’Kane, PPS Victim Champion, said:
“It is vital that victims, many of whom have already experienced deeply traumatic events, will feel supported throughout their engagement with the criminal justice system. We work closely with partners, including the PSNI and victim representative groups, to ensure victims receive clear information and are treated with respect and sensitivity.
“Open dialogue across agencies is essential to meeting victims’ needs, improving outcomes and public confidence in the justice process. I want to thank all the speakers, partner organisations and MLAs who shared their perspectives and contributed to these important discussions.”
Sponsor of the event, Connie Egan MLA, said:
“This event brought together those working at the front line of the justice system to address some of the most serious issues facing our society. It highlighted the importance of continuing to examine how domestic and sexual abuse are addressed and how victims are supported at every stage.”
L-R: The Director of Public Prosecutions Stephen Herron, is joined at Parliament Buildings, Stormont by Connie Egan MLA, Presiding District Judge (Magistrates’ Courts) Steven Keown, Marianne O’Kane, PPS Senior Assistant Director and Victim Champion, Geraldine Hanna, Victim of Crime Commissioner Designate and Detective Superintendent Kerry Brennan from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Public Protection Branch.