Journalists in Northern Ireland can now live tweet court proceedings in line with their colleagues in Great Britain.

The Lord Chief Justice’s Office has issued guidance clarifying that journalists in the region can now use live text-based forms of communication (LTBC) in court without making an application to the judge first.

The ruling comes after a consultation relating to note taking in court and the use of LTBC such as email, social media and internet enabled laptops in and from courts throughout Northern Ireland.

However, the guidance does not apply to members of the public attending court.

The announcement from the Lord Chief Justice’s Office, based at Belfast’s Royal Courts of Justice, pictured above, reads: “Journalists sitting in the press box are permitted to take notes in all cases and to use electronic devices without notifying the court.

“Journalists who wish to use LTBC from court may do so without making an application to the court. This is to assist with the production of fair and accurate reports of proceedings.

“The mobile device must be silent and there should be no disruption to the proceedings. The guidance reminds journalists that they should be aware of the danger to the administration of justice arising from the use of LTBC.

“Permission to use LTBC from court may be withdrawn by the court at any time. Members of the public are not permitted to use LTBC from court and should switch off electronic devices when entering court.”

Journalists in Great Britain have been able to live tweet cort proceedings without making an application to the judge since 2011.