Arson Attack On Ulster Justice Minister Fizzles Out

The Northern Ireland Justice Minister and Alliance Party Leader David Ford's Newtownabbey office has been damaged in an overnight arson attack.

Police in Northern Ireland are investigating the incident when liquid was poured on to the building at Carnmoney Road, Glengormley, in Co Antrim and set on fire. The office, which was empty at the time, suffered scorch damage.

A PSNI spokesman said: "Shortly before 5am scorch damage was discovered on the outside wall of the premises. No one was in the premises at the time.

"Anyone who was in the area at the time and saw anything suspicious is asked to contact Police in Newtownabbey on 0845 600 8000. Or, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Meanwhile, David Ford has condemned the arson attack: "This is a despicable attack on an office which provides an important service to the whole community. This was a cowardly and cynical attack.

"Those seeking to cause damage and fear will not prevent us from getting on with our role of serving the public.

"This is an attack on democracy. Incidents like this make us all even more determined to protect peace and ensure we have a society free from violence and division," he said.

The DUP MP for South Antrim, William McCrea has also condemned those responsible for attacking the constituency office.

He said: "Those responsible for the attack on David Ford's constituency office will be condemned by all right thinking people throughout the South Antrim area.

"Mr Ford is a democratically elected representative of the people of South Antrim and any attack on him or his office is an attack on the democratic process itself. I would urge any person who has any information about the identity of those responsible for this incident to come forward and share it with the police," said the DUP politician.

Sentences Reviewed

Just days ago, David Ford wrote new provisions under the Northern Ireland Justice Act 2011 into law.

Included in the provisions was that the maximum sentence for common assault increased from three months to six months along with a widening the remit of Financial Reporting Orders to allow police to monitor offenders financial affairs and an increase in the deferred sentence period from six to 12 months.

The authorities were also handed wider powers to deal with sex offenders who breach the terms of their release licence.

Provisions to enable vulnerable or mentally unwell offenders to appear in court via videolink were also introduced as part of the Act, as were powers to monitor criminals' financial affairs.

The changes represented the first tranche of the act, with further law changes set to be introduced later in the year.

Next month, legislation to create new public-order offences at sports events to help control the behaviour of violent or abusive fans will be placed on the statute.

See: Justice Served As Legislation Updated

(BMcC/GK)