Spellar launches criminal record database

Up-to-date information on convictions and criminal records is now available to all Criminal Justice organisations with a relevant interest, it was announced today.

Speaking at the launch of the Criminal Record Viewer, Criminal Justice Minister John Spellar said the ability for authorised users across all Criminal Justice Organisations (CJOs) to now access criminal records on one confidential database "marks a considerable advancement in the modernisation of the criminal justice system".

"This unique achievement within the UK is the first tangible benefit to come from the multi-agency Causeway Programme, that will ultimately allow for the electronic flow of all information between the CJOs in Northern Ireland," the Minister said.

"The far reaching advantages will extend far beyond the CJO's, importantly benefiting victims and witnesses who should see trials coming to court more quickly. Judges and magistrates will now be able to make bail and sentencing decisions based on a full understanding of the defendant's record."

The ability for all the agencies to view criminal records will be followed by a phased rollout of additional functionality to over 10,000 users. The system will be fully operational in 2006.

The six Criminal Justice Organisations in Northern Ireland involved in Causeway are: The PSNI; Forensic Science Northern; The Public Prosecution Service of Northern Ireland; The Northern Ireland Court Service; The Probation Board for Northern Ireland; The Northern Ireland Prison Service.

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