Mr McCourt spent over three decades in private practice in Bangor prior to spending over a decade as a district judge in Northern Ireland.

He has been jointly appointed by relevant authorities in Northern Ireland, Scotland and England and Wales to the position of “appointed person” under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.

The role was established to provide assurance to Westminster, Holyrood and Stormont that independent scrutiny has been applied to reports of searches and seizures carried out under the 2002 Act when prior judicial approval has not been given.

Mr McCourt will write an annual report which draws general conclusions about the issues arising from relevant search and seizure reports and can also make appropriate recommendations about the exercise of the powers.