Ford And Shatter Sign Forensic Services Agreement

The first meeting of the Intergovernmental Agreement on Cooperation on Criminal Justice Matters since the Assembly and Dáil elections, has been held in Armagh.

Justice Minister David Ford and the Irish Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence, Alan Shatter, discussed a number of issues ranging from youth justice to support for victims of crime.

The Ministers also signed a Memorandum of Understanding to support cooperation between forensic science agencies on the island of Ireland.

David Ford said: "This is another example of the excellent cooperation at an operational level between criminal justice organisations on both sides of the border.

"This memorandum ensures that the forensic science laboratories in both jurisdictions can rely on each other's facilities in the event of sudden loss or damage to either laboratory and further strengthens the working relationships that are already in place between the two services."

The Minister underlined his commitment to work closely with his Irish counterpart on areas of mutual interest to help build safer communities across Ireland.

He said: "Although I met with Alan shortly after his appointment as Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence, this was our first formal meeting under the auspices of the Intergovernmental Agreement on Criminal Justice Cooperation. Operationally, criminal justice agencies of both sides of the border are working closely and I want to continue to maximise that co-operation.

"Crime does not stop at the border and I know that by continuing to work together, we can help make Ireland, both north and south, a safer and better place to live."

Minister Shatter also praised the Memorandum of Understanding between the forensic science services and close working relationships that have been developed under the Intergovernmental Agreement on Co-operation on Criminal Justice Matters.

Minister Shatter said: "The Memorandum of Understanding is a result of the close work and excellent cooperation that has taken place between the forensic science services and will foster scientific and technical cooperation and advancement between the two forensic science laboratories. The type of cooperation included in the agreement will enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of both bodies and will improve the services they both provide".

As one of the out workings of the Intergovernmental Agreement both governments have agreed a new work programme setting out priorities for cross-border cooperation over the next twelve months. Looking to drive forward a range of criminal justice initiatives to make Ireland, both North and South, a better and safer place to live.

(BMcN)