16/07/2004

NIO legislation cracks down on bail offenders

NIO Criminal Justice Minister John Spellar has announced the commencement of new legislation in respect of bail granted by Northern Ireland courts.

The Justice (Northern Ireland) Act 2004 tightens and aligns the powers of enforcement of bail conditions by placing additional requirements on persons granted bail; and also gives the police additional powers to monitor and ensure compliance with bail conditions.

Mr Spellar said: "The Government is pleased to be commencing new legislation in respect of bail laws in Northern Ireland.

“I am introducing these bail offences, penalties and additional police powers to improve the effectiveness of bail and to strengthen the policing of bail conditions.

"When a person is granted bail it is essential that he or she complies with the conditions required by the court. If he does not, he can expect the full weight of the law to be brought to bear.

"In the coming months I will be commencing further powers of appeal for prosecutors in bail cases.

"Along with new legislation on hate crime and anti-social behaviour, this is part of Government's ongoing programme of work to improve criminal justice law in Northern Ireland."

(GB)


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