Ford Meets DPP Chief

Victims' rights and providing a 'transparent' system of prosecution were on the agenda for a high level meeting this week.

The newly installed Minister of Justice, David Ford has met with the Director of the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) to hear about its challenges and goals.

A wide range of issues were discussed including tackling avoidable delay within the criminal justice system, meeting the needs of victims, the independence of prosecutorial decisions and the moves to improve the transparency of the service they provide to the public.

Speaking after the meeting Mr Ford said: "I acknowledge and respect that the independence of decision-making by prosecutors within the Public Prosecution Service is vital, but independence does not mean isolation.

"Greater co-operation and continuing sharing of information between all of the criminal justice agencies is critical in building a fast, fair and effective criminal justice system," he said, noting that the PPS already plays a key role and works in partnership with other justice organisations on issues such as tackling avoidable delay and supporting victims.

"By working together we can improve the justice system to meet needs of local people," continued the Alliance party leader.

"I shared my determination to tackle delay, support victims and make the process of justice more transparent. I look forward to the PPS and my Department working together to achieve this," he concluded.

The Director in welcoming his meeting with the Minister said: "The present arrangements ensure that the independence of the prosecutor in reaching difficult decisions is protected.

"I look forward to working closely with the Department of Justice and our other partners in the criminal justice system to reduce avoidable delay and ensure that victims and witnesses receive a first class service," said the Acting Director of Public Prosecutions for Northern Ireland, Jim Scholes.

Meanwhile in a more negative move, it has emerged that a road running between the two main court buildings in Belfast is to be closed off with barriers again because of the risk of a dissident republican attack.

The end of Chichester Street, which was opened to buses and pedestrians last year, after decades behind a security cordon, is to be closed off again - going back to the years of terrorism when the Courts' complex was a regular target for bombers.

(BMcC/GK)