The Order
7.7.The Criminal Justice (Northern Ireland) Order 2008 provides new sentencing powers for dangerous sexual and violent offenders; establishes post-release supervision on release from prison; removes automatic remission (currently 50% in Northern Ireland) for sentenced prisoners; and creates new powers to manage the risk posed by certain sexual and violent offenders in the community. It also contains road traffic powers, powers to combat alcohol-related disorder and increased penalties for offences relating to knives; and a range of other matters are also provided.
7.8.The Order has a number of policy purposes. It is designed to increase public protection from dangerous offenders and to respond to issues of particular community concern. By adjusting curfew powers, introducing electronic monitoring, and providing a community alternative to custody for fine default, the proposals are also aimed at ensuring that custody is only used for those offenders who merit it. Other provisions are designed to improve the operational efficiency of the criminal justice system and in certain matters to allow Northern Ireland to keep pace with developments in other jurisdictions.
