Raymond McCord, a prominent victims rights campaigner whose son was killed by loyalist paramilitaries in 1997, lodged an application for judicial review at the High Court earlier this month.

Now his lawyer says he is likely to be joined by MLAs, who the Belfast Telegraph report are likely to issue similar proceedings.

Mr McCord’s challenge, due to be heard on Friday, was removed from the list and re-listed on 5 September, the first day of the new term.

His solicitor, Ciaran O’Hare of McIvor Farrell Solicitors, told Irish Legal News: “The reason for this re-listing is that the court is of the view that this matter must be heard by the Senior Judicial Review Judge and also, a group of MLAs now wish to issue proceedings.”

He added: “I understand that these MLAs will issue proceedings quite soon.”

Mr O’Hare also said a decision to provide legal aid for his client’s challenge demonstrated its “strong merit”.

He said: “It should be noted that only in cases of merit, complexity and public importance is funding granted to allow for the instruction of Junior and Senior Counsel.

“Mr McCord wishes to extend his thanks to the panel for recognising the strong merit of his challenge.”