Ford heralds new era for local justice system

5.21.00pm GMT Mon 12th Apr 2010

Justice Minister David Ford

Justice Minister David Ford has said that today heralds a new era for the justice system in Northern Ireland.

For the first time in 38 years, a locally elected and accountable Minister has responsibility for policing and justice powers, including civil justice.

Elected today on a cross community vote in the Northern Ireland Assembly, the new Department of Justice Minister vowed to get down to work immediately.

Mr Ford said: "This is a day of huge opportunity for all the people of Northern Ireland, marking a new era for the justice system.

"The transfer of policing and justice powers from Westminster to the Northern Ireland Executive allows, for the first time in 38 years, local people to shape the justice system so that it meets local needs in the future.

"Many of the problems society faces cannot be resolved in isolation and everyone accepts that issues like anti-social behaviour, building safer communities or tackling re -offending needs a broader, joined-up approach."

A range of policing and justice powers has been transferred to the Department of Justice. Its remit stretches beyond policing and criminal justice issues with responsibility for civil law functions also falling to the Department.

Mr Ford said: "With justice powers now sitting alongside health, education, social development and others at the heart of local government, there is a real opportunity to make a difference and build a Shared Future for everyone in Northern Ireland.

"The Hillsborough Castle Agreement outlined proposals that could be incorporated as the Department of Justice's addendum to the Programme for Government and I want to start developing those further.

"I also intend to get out and speak to those working in the criminal justice system and listen to what they have to say and the challenges and problems they encounter on a daily basis.

"The size of the challenge ahead cannot be underestimated. Change will not happen overnight and it will require everyone in the criminal justice system pulling in the same direction.

"I look forward to working closely with colleagues in the Executive, the Justice Committee and those in the criminal justice system in the days and months ahead."