Justice Minister Naomi Long has launched a public consultation, inviting views on proposals to enhance the efficiency of Northern Ireland’s criminal justice system. The consultation focuses on various issues, including expanding the types of offences that can be dealt with via a Penalty Notice for Disorder (PND), reviewing penalty amounts, and exploring alternative payment methods.

Minister Long clarified the rationale behind these proposed changes: "These proposals are not about taking a softer approach when the law is broken. Rather, the consultation aims to add to the tools already available to the PSNI and Public Prosecution Service (PPS) when dealing with criminal behaviour. It also seeks to divert more cases away from the very busy court system, where this is deemed by the PSNI or PPS to be an appropriate response."

The Minister highlighted that increasing the use of out-of-court disposals, which offer a timely and proportionate response to offending behaviours, should allow resources to be concentrated on bringing the most serious offences before the courts. "I am committed to delivering a faster, fair and effective criminal justice system that the public can support and have confidence in," Minister Long continued. She acknowledged that delays in court proceedings are a long-standing challenge, causing harm to victims and witnesses whose lives are often put on hold, and impacting those accused, some of whom may face custody or bail restrictions.

Emphasising the importance of the presumption of innocence and public confidence, Minister Long stated: "Looking to the future, it is essential we create a sustainable criminal justice system that delivers for all."

The Department of Justice encourages members of the public, community and voluntary organisations, and anyone with an interest in the criminal justice system to participate in the consultation and provide their views.

The consultation, which is open until 28 September, can be accessed at the Publication Section of this website .