North: Rights group slams Anti-Social Behaviour Orders

Children’s rights organisations in the North have attacked new laws intended to tackle anti-social behaviour which came into force today, claiming they do not work.

The Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs) mean those named in them could be banned from neighbourhoods. Children as young as 10 can be targeted under the legislation, which is already operating in the UK.

Anyone who breaches the order could be fined or face up to five years in jail.

Northern Ireland Criminal Justice Minister John Spellar warned offenders the punishment will be severe.

He said: “This provides another tool in dealing with behaviour of this kind which can ruin lives and local communities. It complements measures which already exist and lets those who act in an anti-social way know that they will face firm sanctions.

“We will be working with all the agencies to make sure this legislation is used early and effectively.”

Orders can be imposed by a magistrate in cases where there is no associated conviction.

Police, district councils or the Housing Executive can all urge the action against anyone they believe poses an anti-social threat.

But the courts will have discretionary powers to impose reporting restrictions and prevent children being named and shamed.

However, Koulla Yiasouma, director of Include Youth, said: “The problem is that ASBOs are being held up by government as the answer to all our prayers but in reality they are nothing of the sort.”

Children’s Law Centre director Paddy Kelly claimed the legislation clearly infringed on young people’s rights.

“Anyone who is charged with a criminal offence is entitled to have their day in court, to have a fair trial,” she said.

“However, because ASBOs are obtained in the civil court, the same safeguards are not in place. We are therefore simply criminalising children by the back door.”

Sinn Féin’s human rights spokeswoman Caitriona Ruane agreed, accusing the British government of ignoring the clamour of opposition.

“The decision to force through this legislation against widespread concerns demonstrates a pig-headed arrogance,” she said.

SDLP equality spokeswoman Patricia Lewsley claimed the authorities had let down all young people in Northern Ireland by introducing such harsh measures.

She said: “They are willing to tag people as young as 10 as criminal – this is insane and completely disregards equality legislation, in particular by failing to consult with young people.”