MLAs in her south Antrim constituency, as well as its MP Robin Swann, have written a joint letter to the CBA asking it to allow the trial to proceed on schedule.
The letter states: “The continuing impact of the strike has only added further distress and frustration for a family who simply wish to see the legal process come to a conclusion.”
Its notes that the CBA has previously exempted some other cases from its strike.
It adds: “We urge the association to show the same understanding and compassion.”
In a statement, Long said it is disappointing that Mr McCollum’s family does not know where things stand.
She added: “It is also extremely disheartening that a grieving family feels compelled to appeal for a trial to go ahead; that their pain should be compounded by having to speak so publicly about this intolerable situation.
“No family should ever be put in this position and yet sadly they are not unique.”
