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Public views on crime plan sought | Public views on crime plan sought |
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The public is being asked to give its views on a new five-year plan to tackle crime in Northern Ireland. | The public is being asked to give its views on a new five-year plan to tackle crime in Northern Ireland. |
The draft proposals of the community safety strategy were published on Monday. | |
Official figures show that recorded crime in Northern Ireland has fallen by 15% during the past five years - an average of 82 fewer offences each week. | Official figures show that recorded crime in Northern Ireland has fallen by 15% during the past five years - an average of 82 fewer offences each week. |
"Making NI a safer place to live, work and socialise is a top priority," said Criminal Justice Minister Paul Goggins. | |
"Public confidence in the criminal justice system is increasing, but we cannot afford to be complacent. Crime, fear of crime and anti-social behaviour have a devastating impact on individuals and communities and it is vital that we continue to tackle these issues at all levels." | |
Mr Goggins said the draft proposals put a clear focus on "ensuring that the needs of the community come first". | |
Families | |
"And we want to enable local people and their community organisations to be directly involved. | |
"We are putting added emphasis on diversion and prevention, with a clear focus on families, young people and the need to build strong confident communities." | |
The new strategy brings together a range of government agencies, councils and local community initiatives, such as neighbourhood watch schemes, working in partnership with the police. | |
It sets out proposals for community safety in Northern Ireland for the next five years under three key themes: Creating Safer Neighbourhoods, Focus on Families and Young People, and Building Strong Confident Communities. | |
Responses to the draft document can be submitted to the Northern Ireland Office's Community Safety Unit until 19 January. |