Female Genital Mutilation Protection Orders (FGMPOs) are now available in Northern Ireland.

Justice Minister David Ford and Finance Minister Arlene Foster made the announcement.

An FGMPO is an order which can be made for the purpose of protecting a girl against the commission of a genital mutilation offence or protecting a girl against whom such an offence has already been committed. Breaching an FGMPO is a criminal offence that can carry a penalty of up to five years imprisonment.

Mr Ford said: "I want to send a clear message that Female Genital Mutilation is a crime. It is a harmful practice that has no place in our society and is a violation of the rights of girls and women. We know that these dreadful acts are often perpetrated abroad and during the school holidays when absences are less likely to be questioned. Sadly as many children in Northern Ireland will have looked forward to the summer holidays others will have lived in fear of the summer break."

Arlene Foster said: "I am calling on everyone to join the fight against Female Genital Mutilation. If you are worried or have any information that could help protect a woman or child, please make that call and help us to stamp out this heinous crime once and for all."

(CD)