Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ABSOs) are designed to prevent behaviour including theft, intimidation, drunkenness and violence by individuals and families who make life difficult for their communities.

The orders, which have been available in England and Wales since April 1999, often include restrictions on entering a geographical area or shop and can also include bans on specific acts, such as swearing in public.

Effective for a minimum of two years, ABSOs are civil orders rather than criminal penalties and are handled by police and local authorities working in partnership.

Breaches are punishable by up to five years in prison.

Sid McDowell said introducing the orders in Northern Ireland would make a big difference to people's lives.

"This kind of action would be taken as the result of a decision in the magistrates court," he said.

"The attraction is that it is a civil remedy, but if there is a breach, the criminal law can come into effect.

"Therefore it can be enacted quickly and speedily, and improve the quality of life for people as a result."

ASBOs were a key part of the Crime and Disorder Act (1998) in England and Wales, and were strengthened and extended by the Police Reform Act 2002.