Debate contribution: Justice Bill: Consideration Stage

Debate contribution by Ms Emma Sheerin on 16 June 2026.

MLA: Ms Emma Sheerin
Party at the time: Sinn Féin
Date: 16 June 2026
Type: Debate contribution
Business: Executive Committee Business
Heading: Justice Bill: Consideration Stage
Assembly identifier: Official Report component 5625180

Text

I will speak on behalf of my party. Sinn Féin will support amendment Nos 92 to 95. They represent important, progressive reforms to our justice system, which we obviously support. We have probably seen far too little of that in recent days. At their heart is the principle that our justice system has to hold people accountable for their actions, but it also has to support effective rehabilitation. The most effective way in which to create safe communities is to reduce reoffending by supporting people to make changes in their lives. When a person has served their sentence and demonstrated that they have changed their behaviours, the law should support them on that journey rather than create unnecessary barriers the increase the risk of further offending. Sinn Féin supports amendment No 92, which is a modernising amendment that recognises people should not be burdened for the rest of their lives as a result of past mistakes. The evidence shows us that having support mechanisms such as stable employment, a healthy home life and access to education means that people are less likely to reoffend. People should not have to face obstacles caused by outdated legislation when they try to access such opportunities and rights. We therefore support amendment Nos 92 and 93, which will create a clear pathway for offenders to apply to be recognised as being rehabilitated after it has been accepted that they have made changes in their lives. Sinn Féin also supports amendment Nos 94 and 95, which will reform criminal record disclosures to ensure that they are more closely focused on serious and relevant offences. A system that focuses on relevant convictions is integral to protecting children and vulnerable adults. Taken together, the amendments represent a significant step towards having a more effective justice system, and Sinn Féin supports the objectives that have been outlined.

309 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

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