AQW 13704/17-22

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 29/01/2021
Answered On Date: 04/02/2021
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Justice for her assessment of enforcement related to the latest COVID-19 restrictions.

Answer:

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) Regulations (NI) 2020 are the responsibility of the Department of Health.

Operational policing decisions on enforcing public health restrictions are a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. The Chief Constable is also operationally independent from the Northern Ireland Executive.

As Justice Minister I am are committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the Policing Board.

I can advise however, that the PSNI continues to use the 3Es of engage, explain and encourage to secure public adherence with the regulations as their main approach. Enforcement will always be the last resort however, where it is necessary and proportionate the PSNI will do so in accordance with the Regulations and supporting Guidance.

The PSNI updates its enforcement statistics weekly on its website as www.psni.ppn.police.uk

Any questions regarding the PSNI’s approach to enforcing the public health regulations should be directed to the Chief Constable.