AQW 25843/17-22

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 16/11/2021
Answered On Date: 22/11/2021
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on plans to review sentencing in Northern Ireland, including for those who cause death while driving.

Answer:

My Department’s review of sentencing policy in Northern Ireland resulted in 54 recommendations, based upon the responses received to the consultation.

In relation to causing death or serious injury by dangerous driving, I have agreed that the maximum sentence should be increased from the current 14 years imprisonment to 20 years. I have also decided that, for repeat offenders, a life sentence should be available to the Court.

As regards disqualification from driving for those offenders, I have agreed that the mandatory minimum period should increase from 2 to 4 years, and, for a repeat offender within a 10 year period, the minimum disqualification period should be 6 years.

In addition, I have agreed that the law should be amended so that any period of disqualification comes into effect from the date the offender is released from prison.

I believe these measures will provide the courts with a stronger sentencing framework which will help to deter offending and punish those drivers found guilty of the most serious offences.

My officials briefed the Justice Committee on the proposed way forward on Thursday 15 April 2021. The report on the way forward setting out my decisions was published on 21 April and can be seen online at Sentencing Policy Review - Way Forward Report

As outlined in that report, I consider it important that all legislative recommendations should be delivered together in a single focussed Sentencing Bill. My officials are taking preparatory work forward with a view to introducing the legislation early in the next mandate.