To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for an update on the Executive action plan on Tackling Paramilitary Activity, Criminality and Organised Crime; (ii) for her assessment of the impact of the absence of a Programme for Government on furthering this plan; and (iii) for her assessment of the rising cases of gun attacks in the East Londonderry area.

The Action Plan to Tackle Paramilitary Activity, Criminality, and Organised Crime is a cross Executive initiative, co-ordinated by a Programme Team within my Department.

The latest Delivery Update Report can be found here:

https://www.justice-ni.gov.uk/publications/executive-action-plan-delivery-updates-tackling-paramilitary-activity

The Programme was subject to a comprehensive review in June 2020, and the review document is accessible online:

https://www.justice-ni.gov.uk/publications/tackling-paramilitary-activity-criminality-and-organised-crime-action-plan

The initial funding period for the Action Plan is due to end on 31st March 2021. The Executive has agreed with my proposal that the Action Plan be extended, in order to build on work to date and ensure that we take a long term, holistic approach to addressing the challenges associated with paramilitarism and organised crime.

I have been impressed with the collaboration which has been fostered under the Action Plan. Departments have taken a collaborative ‘One Team’ approach which involves a cross-Departmental Programme Board, joint problem solving around key issues, and regular information sharing and discussion. The Programme structures associated with the Action Plan have been important in developing this approach. I trust that this co-operation will continue as a new Programme for Government is developed.

I share the Member’s concern about gun attacks in the East Londonderry area. Unfortunately such incidents highlight the need for ongoing efforts to create the conditions in which our society can be free of those who use violence to coerce, control and abuse communities. It is vital that those responsible for these attacks are brought to justice and I would urge anyone with information to pass it to the police or the independent charity Crimestoppers.