Northern Ireland has rolled out a new scheme under which offenders who commit road traffic offences are required to contribute to a fund for victims.

The offender levy scheme was initially introduced in 2012 and will now include endorsable fixed penalties issued by the PSNI and the Driver Vehicle Agency, as well as those issued in relation to speed cameras.

Northern Ireland Justice Minister Claire Sugden said that the additional funding will provide a boost to victim and witness services.

"Today’s change will further enhance the support offered by government to the victims of these crimes."

“Victims and witnesses play a vital role in the effectiveness of the criminal justice system.

“It is important that they are supported by quality services, and that we continually seek to improve those services, and that those who break the law should make a contribution to improving those services.”

With the new offender levy scheme in place, offenders would be compelled to pay into a dedicated Victims of Crime Fund managed centrally by the Department of Justice, as part of their sentence or fine.

A levy of £5 will apply to the fixed penalty.

Sugden further added: “Road traffic offences impact on the community as a whole and have the potential to cause serious injury, or worse, death in some cases.

"Today’s change will further enhance the support offered by government to the victims of these crimes.”

The offender levy initiative has already raised more than £800,000 for the fund.

The roll-out of this new scheme is expected to provide an additional £150,000 per year.

Stage one of the offender levy scheme was introduced on 6 June 2012.