Menu
21/03/2022
New Youth Justice Framework To Be Established
A new Framework to establish the strategic direction for the future of youth justice in Northern Ireland has been announced by Justice Minister, Naomi Long.
The Framework is accompanied by a 5-year Action Plan and recognises the developments which have taken place in the youth justice system over the course of the past decade.
Naomi Long said: "We have made significant inroads into addressing offending behaviour by children in recent years and this has resulted in a considerable reduction in the number of children and young people entering the formal criminal justice system. This benefits everyone in our society, from the children themselves and their families, to their victims and the wider communities in which they live.
"My Department's new Strategic Framework for Youth Justice recognises that in order to build upon past successes and make further improvements, the continued adoption of a "children first" approach is vital. This, and other key principles set out in the Framework will underpin all our interactions with children in the justice system."
The Strategic Framework aims to deliver on a number of high level outcomes in order to realise the Department's vision of 'a progressive youth justice system – delivering better outcomes for children and communities'. Key to this work will be the continued delivery of, and investment in, initiatives aimed at diverting young people from the youth justice system at the earliest possible stage and the development of further measures aimed at ensuring custody for children is a last resort.
Minister Long continued: "I do not believe that criminalising children as young as 10 is in their best interests. A key action within the Framework, therefore, is to engage the public in a debate on this, with the aim of increasing the minimum age of criminal responsibility in Northern Ireland to 14.
"The vast majority of children in Northern Ireland will thankfully never enter into contact with the youth justice system. For those who do, I am pleased that we now have a Framework dedicated to improving their life chances and ensuring they receive the support that every child deserves."
The Framework is accompanied by a 5-year Action Plan and recognises the developments which have taken place in the youth justice system over the course of the past decade.
Naomi Long said: "We have made significant inroads into addressing offending behaviour by children in recent years and this has resulted in a considerable reduction in the number of children and young people entering the formal criminal justice system. This benefits everyone in our society, from the children themselves and their families, to their victims and the wider communities in which they live.
"My Department's new Strategic Framework for Youth Justice recognises that in order to build upon past successes and make further improvements, the continued adoption of a "children first" approach is vital. This, and other key principles set out in the Framework will underpin all our interactions with children in the justice system."
The Strategic Framework aims to deliver on a number of high level outcomes in order to realise the Department's vision of 'a progressive youth justice system – delivering better outcomes for children and communities'. Key to this work will be the continued delivery of, and investment in, initiatives aimed at diverting young people from the youth justice system at the earliest possible stage and the development of further measures aimed at ensuring custody for children is a last resort.
Minister Long continued: "I do not believe that criminalising children as young as 10 is in their best interests. A key action within the Framework, therefore, is to engage the public in a debate on this, with the aim of increasing the minimum age of criminal responsibility in Northern Ireland to 14.
"The vast majority of children in Northern Ireland will thankfully never enter into contact with the youth justice system. For those who do, I am pleased that we now have a Framework dedicated to improving their life chances and ensuring they receive the support that every child deserves."
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
05 March 2004
Minister aims for effective criminal youth justice system
Getting youth justice right is a fundamental part of the Government's commitment to delivering an effective and inclusive criminal justice system for Northern Ireland, Criminal Justice Minister, John Spellar has said.
Minister aims for effective criminal youth justice system
Getting youth justice right is a fundamental part of the Government's commitment to delivering an effective and inclusive criminal justice system for Northern Ireland, Criminal Justice Minister, John Spellar has said.
21 July 2004
Minister praises achievements of Youth Justice Agency
Criminal Justice Minister John Spellar has praised the success of the Youth Justice Agency during its first year of operation, saying it had achieved "tangible goals" against a background of major change.
Minister praises achievements of Youth Justice Agency
Criminal Justice Minister John Spellar has praised the success of the Youth Justice Agency during its first year of operation, saying it had achieved "tangible goals" against a background of major change.
21 April 2004
Spellar outlines way forward for Youth Justice Agency
Criminal Justice Minister John Spellar, today announced the publication of the Youth Justice Agency of Northern Ireland's second Corporate and Business Plan.
Spellar outlines way forward for Youth Justice Agency
Criminal Justice Minister John Spellar, today announced the publication of the Youth Justice Agency of Northern Ireland's second Corporate and Business Plan.
07 October 2022
Justice Minister Commits To Improving Youth Justice System
Justice Minister Naomi Long has reiterated her commitment to delivering a youth justice system that benefits all children.
Justice Minister Commits To Improving Youth Justice System
Justice Minister Naomi Long has reiterated her commitment to delivering a youth justice system that benefits all children.
21 July 2023
DoJ Publishes New Protocol For Delivery Of Restorative Justice
A new Protocol for the delivery of restorative justice in Northern Ireland has been published by the Department of Justice (DoJ). The new 2023 Protocol will govern the use of restorative interventions in the criminal justice system in NI and details how a new accreditation process will work for organisations and individuals.
DoJ Publishes New Protocol For Delivery Of Restorative Justice
A new Protocol for the delivery of restorative justice in Northern Ireland has been published by the Department of Justice (DoJ). The new 2023 Protocol will govern the use of restorative interventions in the criminal justice system in NI and details how a new accreditation process will work for organisations and individuals.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
