Niacro Calls for Crucial Justice Reform at Assembly Evidence Session
Thursday 15 May 2025
Niacro has urged the Justice Committee to seize a vital opportunity to modernise Northern Ireland’s criminal justice system, during a powerful evidence session on the draft Justice Bill on 8 May 2025.
Speaking directly to MLAs, our Chief Executive Fiona Greene called for:
- A fairer, more progressive spent convictions system – Reform of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Order to align with progress in England and Wales.
- Raising the Minimum Age of Criminal Responsibility (MACR) from 10 to 16—bringing Northern Ireland in line with international children’s rights standards.
Our CEO said: “People deserve a second chance. This Bill can unlock opportunity, reduce reoffending, and build safer communities.”
Niacro highlighted the real-life impact of criminal records on employment, education, and family life - emphasising that employment is the single biggest factor in preventing reoffending. We also stressed the need for a trauma-informed approach to youth justice, especially for care-experienced children.
With over 7,700 people supported annually and 50,000 prison visits facilitated last year, we continue to lead the way in supporting rehabilitation, providing early intervention programmes, and ensuring community safety.
“This is a once-in-a-generation chance to put fairness, evidence, and humanity at the heart of our justice system.”