Alliance MLA David Ford has said the European Arrest Warrant is essential for north-south justice, after the EU warned the UK will be kicked out of the system following Brexit. EU Chief Negotiator Michel Barnier said the warrant would be removed from the UK, instead having a streamlined extradition process. “The European Arrest Warrant is […]
Alliance MLA David Ford has welcomed the Department of Justice establishing a working group to examine the education and training opportunities for separated prisoners in Maghaberry Prison. Mr Ford was speaking after the DOJ announced the review, which will engage with stakeholders over the summer and report in the autumn. It is part of the […]
Alliance MLA David Ford has welcomed news a review has been launched into how the criminal justice system here deals with serious sexual offence cases. The review, which Mr Ford called for last week in the wake of the recent high-profile rape trial in Belfast, will be led by former judge Sir John Gillen. It […]
Alliance MLA David Ford has written to party leaders asking them to join him in calling for a review of how criminal law operates in light of the recent high-profile rape trial here. Mr Ford said the trial at Belfast Crown Court highlighted a number of issues of concern regarding the application of the law […]
Alliance Deputy Leader Stephen Farry MLA has called for a review of the policy and practice of how the criminal justice system handles alleged sexual crimes, following the conclusion of the trial of two Ireland and Ulster rugby players. Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding were found not guilty of raping a woman at a house […]
Alliance MLA David Ford has welcomed the establishment of a specialist domestic violence court in Derry-Londonderry. The Domestic Violence Perpetrators’ Programme will work with offenders to modify their behaviour, aiming to reduce reoffending and encourage more victims to come forward. Around 30 offenders will take part in the nine-month pilot programme. “The new arrangements for […]