Explanatory Memorandum

Justice Act (Northern Ireland) 2015

2015 CHAPTER 9

24 July 2015

Commentary on Sections

Part 8: Violent Offences Prevention Orders

Supplementary

Section 73: Supply of information by relevant Northern Ireland departments or Secretary of State

This section stipulates that a compiled information report may be provided to the police and that the police may retain and use the information solely for the purpose of prevention, detection, investigation or prosecution of offences.

It provides that the information provided to police by other Government Departments must be destroyed once the offender ceases to be subject to notification requirements, but allows the Chief Constable to apply for an order to extend the period of retention for a further two years from when the notification period ends.

The application to extend must be made within three months preceding the end of the notification requirement period.  The Chief Constable and the offender can appeal against a court order to extend the period of retention, or a refusal by the court to make an order.