AQW 51992/11-16

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 07/12/2015
Answered On Date: 17/12/2015
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the total funding invested in; and (ii) the observed outcomes of, the Tackling Sexual Violence and Abuse strategy 2008; and to outline the resources which have been committed to the implementation of the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse strategy 2013-2020.

Answer:

It is not possible to detail the costs invested to deliver the Tackling Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy 2008 as a whole, given the wide ranging cross-sectoral nature of the work and service provision that has been, and continues to be, delivered through the associated action plans.

A key outcome of this strategy has been the establishment of ‘The Rowan,’ the Sexual Assault Referral Centre, in May 2013. Additionally there has been a public campaign to generate awareness of sexual violence and abuse, and an anti-rape campaign in universities and colleges. A handbook of information, help and support has also been published for adult victims of rape and sexual assault. In September 2013 the domestic violence helpline expanded to respond to the needs of victims of sexual violence and abuse.

The Public Protection Arrangements, which have been introduced in Northern Ireland to enhance the management of risk posed by certain sexual and violent offenders, will be strengthened further by added protections emerging from the Justice Act (Northern Ireland) 2015, such as, the arrangements for Child Protection Disclosure and Violent Offenders Protection Orders.

Consideration continues to be given as to how the aims of the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse strategy may be progressed in the current difficult financial environment. The publication of the final Strategy will be subject to clearance by the Minister of Health and the Executive. In the meantime I have instructed officials within my Department to take forward the implementation of the Justice priorities within the Strategy.