The Criminal Bar Association (CBA) announced the action last month, and it will take place from 6 January to 31 January.

It follows a one-day walkout by criminal barristers and lawyers in November, which the CBA described as a "necessary response" to barristers performing more for "significantly less."

According to the justice minister, the industrial action will "impact most acutely on the victims and witnesses who are waiting to give evidence and receive justice," which is why she was upset.

"The uncertainty caused by the withdrawal of services will only add further to the stress and anxiety they may already be experiencing," said Naomi Long.

She continued,the action will worsen the delays that her department and others in the legal system have been working to address and increase the strains already placed on the system.