Ford responds to latest Independent Monitoring Commission Report

5.26.00pm GMT Wed 26th May 2010

Justice Minister David Ford

Justice Minister David Ford has responded to the publication of the Independent Monitoring Commission's (IMC) latest report by taking up with Treasury Ministers the need to review the regulation of Money Service Bureaux to ensure that they cannot be abused to finance paramilitary groups.

The Minister also said that while the report highlights that the greatest threat remains to be from Dissident Republicans we must not lose sight of the progress Northern Ireland has made in recent years and the opportunities that lie ahead.

Welcoming the report, David Ford said: "This IMC report recognises the fact that there are still groups seeking to destroy what we have achieved in recent years as they continue their campaign against our community. We must ensure that we tackle these groups at every turn. With this in mind, I note that the IMC has highlighted the need to consider the regulations governing Money Service Bureaux to ensure that they cannot be abused for the financing of paramilitary groups. The Organised Crime Task Force has been examining this matter, and I will now be taking up with Treasury Ministers the need to review and strengthen the regulations governing these bureaux.

"We have come a long way in recent years and the devolution of policing and justice further changes the landscape. Our justice system is now owned by and accountable to the people of Northern Ireland. It provides the opportunity to build a safer community for all. I will continue to work closely with the PSNI, my Executive colleagues and with the community to that end.

"I welcome that the report also acknowledges the strength of cooperation which exists between Northern Ireland and the Republic and how this work has saved lives. It is vital that we continue to expand upon this excellent joint working and I will play my full part."