Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 April 2015
215. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has discussed the ongoing punishment beatings in Northern Ireland with the Secretary of State; his views on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15195/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe practice of vigilantism in certain parts of Northern Ireland continues, notwithstanding the transformed political, social and security environment since the Good Friday Agreement. A recent RTÉ documentary ‘Above The Law’, broadcast on 23 March, and corresponding work published by investigative website The Detail, on the issue of punishment beatings, were a reminder of the damage which this abhorrent practice causes, to individuals, their families and communities. Successive Governments have condemned all acts of violence, including punishment beatings, acts of intimidation and threats, as well as sectarian and racist attacks. I reiterate that all such attacks are unacceptable.
It is clear that those involved in such activities are unrepresentative criminals, who have no positive contribution to make to building the reconciled island to which we all aspire.
The criminal justice system in Northern Ireland provides the appropriate means to provide redress in respect of all crime. I wish to endorse the comments of Assistant Chief Constable Stephen Martin of the PSNI, who has said that community support is key to prosecuting those responsible for punishment beatings.
Since the devolution of Policing and Justice in 2010, the Department of Justice in Northern Ireland takes the lead on criminal justice issues. My officials liaise with the Minister of Justice, the Department of Justice, senior PSNI officers, members of the Policing Board and NIO officials, as well as with community representatives on an ongoing basis on the range of issues regarding policing in the community, including on the most effective responses to punishment beatings.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, through its Reconciliation Fund, has provided over €100,000 in the past year to community groups and projects in Northern Ireland that aim to build trust in community policing.
