This paper sets out proposals to bring the majority of those separate tribunals, for which my Department is currently responsible, into a new integrated structure and enhance their independence by bringing tribunal leadership under the Lord Chief Justice of Northern Ireland. It also proposes to introduce new rule making procedures, expand the options for the hearing of disputes and explore the possibility of new arrangements for the appointment of tribunal judiciary.
Consultation opened on 28 January 2013. Closing date 28 March 2013.