To ask the Minister of Justice to detail what steps she is taking to address the growing incidence of (i) online sexual crimes, and (ii) sexual offences more widely.

I am aware of the recent rise of sexual offences reported to the police. Whilst it is important to remain alert to any growing trend, an increase in offending can also be an indication that victims feel more confident to come forward to report the crime to police in order to pursue justice.

I am committed to ensuring that the law is as robust as possible in protecting our community from sexual predators both online and offline. I am also intent in ensuring that adequate systems are in place to manage the risk of re-offending and that victims are supported.

There is already a robust legislative framework in place to help deal with a range of sexual offending behaviours which carry hefty penalties for those committing the more serious offences. The majority of sexual offences are contained within the Sexual Offences (Northern Ireland) Order 2008, but there are a number of other legislative frameworks which contain vital protections, including those specifically directed towards children.

As well as sexual offences, a number of statutory powers have been created to ensure the management of risk from further offending to include court imposed orders such as the Sexual Offences Prevention Orders and notification requirements (commonly known as the sex offender register). These are valuable tools used by our public protection partners who work on a multi-agency basis within the Public Protection Arrangements Northern Ireland.

There is, however, room for improvement in an evolving society, and in responding to the increasing use of technology, which we know has been particularly prevalent during the pandemic.

I am strengthening the law within the Justice (Sexual Offences and Trafficking Victims) Bill, which is currently making its way through the Assembly and which proposes the introduction of a number of new offences. This includes the specific offences of up-skirting and down-blousing and of an adult pretending to be a child for the purposes of child grooming.

My Department is also working closely with the UK Government to ensure Northern Ireland’s interests are included in the work of the new Online Safety Bill. As a reserved matter, the UK-wide Bill will place obligations on online platforms to protect users, including by proactively identifying and removing priority illegal content. The UK Government recently announced that extra priority illegal offences will be added to the Bill, including in respect of some sexual offences.

As well as legislative protection, a range of practical measures are available which help deal with those affected by sexual crime. This includes the 24hr Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline and a new advocacy service for victims of domestic and sexual abuse engaging with the criminal justice system.

Improving confidence in the system is important to me and whilst I know that the progression of sexual offences within the justice system, by their nature, can be extremely challenging, I firmly believe that the improvements we are making will make a real difference to victims of sexual crime.