Offences
I13Special measures directions
1
The Criminal Evidence (Northern Ireland) Order 1999 is amended as follows.
2
In Article 5(5) (offences where witnesses are eligible for assistance with giving evidence), after sub-paragraph (c) add—
d
an offence under section 1 of the Protection from Stalking Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.
3
After Article 22A insert—
Complainants in proceedings involving stalking22B
No person charged with an offence under section 1 of the Protection from Stalking Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 may in any criminal proceedings cross-examine in person a witness who is the complainant, either—
a
in connection with that offence, or
b
in connection with any other offence (of whatever nature) with which that person is charged in the proceedings.
4
In Article 23 (protection of children from cross-examination by defendant in person)—
a
in paragraph (3), after sub-paragraph (cd) insert—
ce
an offence under section 1 of the Protection from Stalking Act (Northern Ireland) 2022;
b
in paragraph (4)(a), for “or (cd)” substitute “, (cd) or (ce)”
.
5
In Article 24 (direction prohibiting defendant from cross-examining particular witnesses)—
a
in paragraph (1), after “22A” insert “, 22B”
;
b
in paragraph (3)(e), after “22A”, in both places it occurs, insert “, 22B”
.
6
In Article 26(1) (defence representation for purposes of cross-examination), after “22A,” insert “22B,”
.
7
In Article 27(1) (warning to jury), after “22A,” insert “22B,”
.