Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2015

Strategy on offences under sections 1 and 2

12.—(1) The Department shall, at least once in every year, publish a strategy on offences under section 1 and 2 (“relevant offences”).

(2) In drawing up the strategy the Department must—

(a) consult with other relevant organisations; and

(b) have regard to views expressed by such organisations.

(3) The purpose of the strategy is to—

(a) raise awareness of relevant offences in Northern Ireland;

(b) contribute to a reduction in the number of such offences.

(4) The strategy shall in particular—

(a) set out arrangements for co-operation between relevant organisations in dealing with relevant offences or the victims of such offences;

(b) include provision as to the training and equipment of those involved in investigating or prosecuting relevant offences or dealing with the victims of such offences;

(c) include provisions aimed at raising awareness of the rights and entitlements of victims of such offences.

(5) In this section “relevant organisation” means any body, agency or other organisation with functions or activities relating to relevant offences or the victims of such offences.