Mr Patsy McGlone (Mid Ulster): To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on the proposed consultation to extend the protected characteristics in the Criminal Justice (Sentencing etc.) Bill.
Minister of Justice: The Phase 2 Consultation to include outstanding recommendations from Judge Marinnan’s review is currently paused until after the Criminal Justice (Sentencing etc.) Bill has passed through the Assembly.
The Consultation will be progressed in the next mandate and will seek views on the Department’s proposals in response to a number of recommendations. This will include the consideration of the addition of new protected characteristics of age and sex/gender. The Consultation may also seek the views of the public on provisions for a definition of sectarianism to accompany the introduction of a statutory sectarian aggravator.
The Department is continuing to progress policy development for proposals for on the addition of further protected characteristics of age and sex / gender and on provisions for a sectarian aggravator in preparation for the Phase 2 Consultation.
The Department’s priority is to ensure that the most impactful provisions to strengthen hate crime legislation will be delivered in this mandate and I remain committed to delivering the best outcomes for all victims of hate crime.
ENDS
Your MLA 