The first event took place in Enniskillen last week in partnership with the Fermanagh Solicitors’ Association and featured contributions from Ulster Unionist Party MLA Diana Armstrong, Democratic Unionist Party MLA Deborah Erskine and Sinn Féin MLA Áine Murphy.

They discussed issues including the impact of local court and custody suite closures on access to justice in rural communities; the need for renewed support for small businesses operating in the region; and strategies to improve recruitment and retention of young people into the legal profession.

Brian Charity, chair of the Fermanagh Solicitors Association, said: “This townhall marks an important step in strengthening engagement between the legal profession and political representatives at a local level.

“We are committed to ensuring the voice of solicitors is heard, particularly in areas where justice infrastructure and professional opportunities are under increasing pressure.”

The Law Society says it intends to hold similar events across Northern Ireland.