Plans focus on anti-social behaviour

Criminal Justice minister John Spellar said on Thursday that the new measures were aimed at curbing violent behaviour which caused fear and anxiety in the community.

"The government is pledged to tackling the menace at every level," Mr Spellar said.

"This consultation process puts forward a package of measures for public consultation to combat neighbourhood disorder."

The proposals include plans to draw up special contracts which young people involved in violent behaviour will have to sign.

These Acceptable Behaviour Contracts (ABCs) are non-statutory and, the NIO believes, could act as a sufficient warning to those involved in such behaviour and their parents.

Minister John Spellar announced proposals

There are also proposals to introduce Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs) as an option available to the court, when there is a conviction for a related criminal offence.

The third measure again involves a behaviour order, where there is not an associated conviction and based on partnership between police, district councils and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.

"These proposals are a direct response to government and community concerns about anti-social behaviour," Mr Spellar added.

"I welcome responses to this consultation which I believe proposes a package of measures which will both complement ongoing work and provide additional tools in dealing with anti-social behaviour by both young people and adults."