Assembly passes justice devolution

Mar 9 2010

The Northern Ireland Assembly has voted in favour of the devolution of policing and justice powers from Westminster, despite opposition from the Ulster Unionist Party.

The vote underpins the Hillsborough Agreement brokered between the Democratic Unionist Party and Sinn Fein to stabilise the region's power-sharing government.

The Assembly decision followed an acrimonious debate in which the Ulster Unionists resisted pressure to support the move, which will now lead to the creation of a Department of Justice for Northern Ireland after the powers are devolved by April 12.

Out of the 105 votes cast, a total of 88 were in support of the move, with only the UUP voting against.

Democratic Unionist leader and Northern Ireland First Minister Peter Robinson attacked the UUP decision to vote against the devolution plans.

He said the party was seeking political advantage and added: "I believe it is time for us all to move forward. There must be no going back to the bad old days of the past.

"Throughout history there are times of challenge and defining moments. This is such a time. This is such a moment."

Mr Robinson added: "Leadership is not about what's easiest, or what best suits our party interests, it is about doing what is right for our people."

The UUP claimed the ministerial Executive must sort out other outstanding matters - such as the longstanding row over post-primary school transfer arrangements - before it can take on law and order functions.

Its leader Sir Reg Empey said: "I am immensely proud of the sacrifices my party has made for the cause of peace. Our determination to make Stormont work for all the people of Northern Ireland - unionists, nationalists, all of us - continues."