The Criminal Justice Inspection Northern Ireland (CJI) has published a report on the detention of persons in the custody of the court in Northern Ireland.
Adrian Axtell, National Officer for the justice and custodial sector for the trade union Community, says:
“As a union we welcome this report on behalf of our members, and hope this marks the beginning of positive changes for the justice and custodial sector in Northern Ireland.
We expressed the concerns of our members during the investigation of the report and were pleased to see those reflected in its findings.
It was encouraging to read recommendations related to risk assessments and management structures, as well as the improved sharing of information across all stakeholders. We are particularly pleased to see dedicated work planned for the recruitment and retention of staff.
These are all issues that we have raised extensively, and we are glad to see them being recognised and plans for improvement are in process. We further note that the report found that, despite the immense challenges facing the prison system, that staff treated detainees with respect and dignity.
Community is committed to working via meaningful consultation with the Northern Ireland Prison Service to ensure that the recommendations of this report are implemented, and our vital justice sector staff can work in the conditions that they deserve and continue to keep the public safe.”
Community is the largest represented trade union within the Prison Escort & Court Custody Services in Northern Ireland.
If you are a member of Community and need help or advice, please contact us at help@community-tu.org or on 0800 389 6332.
© Community Trade Union 2023