Mr. Michael Hourigan:

There was a query about how that would operate. As matters stand, if these hearings take place, complainants are in the building of the court and lawyers must come to court, often having to be found at short notice, and consultations have to occur. All of this happens in the context of the trial process. What we propose is that advanced legal advice be provided to complainants so they can make informed decisions. The evidence appears to be that people have found themselves feeling pressurised, whereby if they do not comply, it will somehow jeopardise the trial process.