No salami slicing in the Department of Justice

The Minister took the opportunity to assure those present that while the final reductions facing the DOJ are still being calculated, he will not be taking the ‘easy way out’ and simply apply the same level of cuts across each function of his department.  Minister Ford acknowledged that voluntary and community organisations cannot be immune from any reductions but stated that he would not allow all of the savings he has to find to come from arms length bodies or third sector providers.  The Minister acknowledged the good work community and voluntary organisations are doing to help achieve the aims of his department and challenged the groups present to ensure they are doing all they can to run as effectively and efficiently as possible.  

Reflecting on the Ministers comments NICVA CEO Seamus McAleavey said “NICVA and the voluntary and community sector have been calling on Ministers to ensure that the vulnerable people, communities and families we work with do not suffer disproportionately due to unfair cuts in services provided by the voluntary and community sector. Minister Ford’s comments show that he is dedicated to ensuring that his department delivers high quality services to the people who need them most.  The Minister's comments echo those from the Minister for Finance and Personnel and the Minster for Social Development that voluntary and community sector providers should not be seen as the easy target when it comes to implementing budget cuts.”

The meeting, which was attended by members of NICVA’s Criminal Justice Advisory Group, had a wide ranging agenda.  The group raised issues around structures and accountability in the DOJ including how the department discharges its Section 75 duties, the plans for changes to District Policing Partnerships and Community Safety Partnerships, the Review of Youth Justice, plans for the review of Safeguarding legislation and the current situation in Hydebank Wood.  Following the meeting NICVA Executive Committee member and Chairperson of the group Liz Cuddy said “we had a frank and interesting discussion with the Minister. It is fair to say that there wasn’t 100% agreement on all the issues raised but the Minister engaged with the group in an open manner and we hope this will be the first of many such meetings.”