§ Mr. McNamaraTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if she has undertaken(a) a policy appraisal and (b) a fair treatment analysis of the proposed changes in criminal law legislation regarding children. [31623]
§ Mr. IngramYes. A PAFT analysis was undertaken.
§ Mr. McNamaraTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what independent complaints mechanism will be available to children and concerned adults complaining of maladministration or unfair treatment under the proposed Criminal Justice (Children) (Northern Ireland) Order. [31629]
§ Mr. IngramChildren, and those concerned with their welfare, will, in addition to the usual remedies, have recourse to the child protection procedures established in accordance with guidelines issued by the Department of Health and Social Services. In addition, the treatment and welfare of children in juvenile justice centres will be subject to independent inspection by the Social Services Inspectorate of DHSS and children will have regular access to Independent Representatives employed by NIACRO.
§ Mr. McNamaraTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what research has been undertaken by her Department into the likely impact of mixing Catholic and Protestant children in the manner proposed by the Criminal Justice (Children) (Northern Ireland) Order. [31628]
§ Mr. IngramSince its inception in 1973, Lisnevin has provided secure accommodation for both Catholic and Protestant boys. Mixing boys of both religions has not given rise to any significant problems.