Call for stalking survivors to shape new NI law
The draft proposals are being finalised and should be with the committee next month.
Victims of stalking are being asked to come forward and help frame new legislation for Northern Ireland.
Draft legislation is being finalised and is expected to reach the committee by November.
Downtown Radio & Cool FM launched a campaign at the beginning of this year to bring in a stand-alone stalking bill.
Currently, Northern Ireland is the only part of the UK not to have specific laws around the crime.
The PSNI deals with stalking under the Protection from Harassment Order (NI) 1997.
In a sit-down interview with our chief reporter Sasha Wylie, the Justice Minister confirmed where the bill is and when it should be finalised.
Naomi Long also made a plea for victims to come forward when it reaches committee.
She said others who have contacted her have helped dramatically shape the laws.
“A stand-alone stalking bill is absolutely critical in how we underline how seriously we take the issue,” she said.
“I have met with victims of stalking I’ve listened to their stories, and obviously there’s been campaigns like yourselves which has really highlighted the impact stalking has.
“When you talk to victims and they say they feel sick in the pit of their stomach every time the mail is delivered, because they’re waiting to see if there’s anything from that person, they’re worried to go out for lunch at work because they are worried that person will be outside their office, I’ve learnt the degree victims end up changing their lives. They feel intimidated about doing necessary daily things.”
The Justice Minister is calling on victims to answer a call from the committee to help shape the law.
It is due to be sent in November, and the committee will then make a formal call for evidence.
Kelly Andrews, of Belfast and Lisburn Women's Aid, welcomed the progress.
"Stalking is a unique crime, driven by the fixation and obsession of the stalker and each stalking incident is different," she said.
"It is a long-term pattern of behaviour that can last for weeks, months or even years."
She added that the legislation was "vitally important to safeguard and protect victims and survivors of domestic violence".