Sentencing for Terrorist Offences Northern Ireland Executive 2022-02-08
2022-02-08
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The speaker is inquiring about recent discussions on the sentencing of individuals involved in terrorism, a matter that falls under devolved jurisdiction.
What recent discussions he has had with the Northern Ireland Executive on sentencing for terrorist offences?
I have had no recent discussions with the Northern Ireland Executive on sentencing for terrorist offences. While sentencing is a devolved matter, the Department continues to engage in discussions with the Department of Justice on devolved matters where helpful and relevant.
▸
Assessment & feedback
No recent discussions regarding sentencing for terrorist offences were reported despite it being an important issue.
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
▸
Context
The speaker is concerned about the excessive delays in the criminal justice system affecting the conviction of terrorism-related cases, which undermines efforts to hold offenders accountable.
Will the Minister work with the Northern Ireland Justice Minister to try to address this problem, so that we can hold to account those who still seek to use violence to achieve political ends in Northern Ireland?
My right hon. Friend speaks with great expertise on these matters. She will be aware that justice and policing are devolved matters, and the Northern Ireland Executive recently reaffirmed their commitment to speeding up the criminal justice system in the New Decade, New Approach agreement. At the end of last year, the Northern Ireland Assembly passed the Criminal Justice (Committal Reform) Bill, which contains measures that will simplify the current system, remove some avoidable delays and ensure the quicker progression to court of some of the most serious cases. I welcome this significant step forward in reforming the criminal justice system in Northern Ireland.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy