AQW 3646/16-21 Written question to the Minister of Justice
To ask the Minister of Justice whether she plans to introduce an offence of controlling or coercive behaviour in intimate or familial relationships, similar to section 76 of the Serious Crime Act 2015 in England and Wales.
Asked by Paula Bradshaw MLA on 21 September 2016
- Answered
- Written
- Tabled
- 21 September 2016
- Answer due by
- 6 October 2016
- Answered
- 29 September 20168 days after tabling
- Department
- Department of Justice
- Priority question
- No
Answer
As Minister of Justice I have identified that Domestic Violence and Abuse is a key priority for my tenure.
On 12 September 2016, I announced in the Assembly my intention to introduce a specific offence in Northern Ireland to capture coercive and controlling behaviour. As I mentioned at the time, further work on the shape of the offence is required, therefore I cannot confirm at this stage whether it will mirror the provisions set out in section 76 of the Serious Crime Act 2015 for England and Wales.
I will however ensure that the new offence provides equal protection to victims here in Northern Ireland.