Ulster Unionist MLA’s Jo-Anne Dobson and Robin Swann have reacted with disappointment to the recent publication of the Draft Community Safety Strategy by the Department of Justice.
The UUP MLA’s, both members of the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee at Stormont raised their concerns following a discussion of the strategy at this week’s Agriculture Committee.
Mrs Dobson said: “Rural Crime is a major issue for those living in isolated rural communities across Northern Ireland. It is a fear for farmers and for rural dwellers alike, and unfortunately indications suggest that it continues to rise and I believe should therefore be treated as a priority by the Executive.
It’s unfortunate that this draft strategy surprisingly appears to downplay the issue of rural crime whilst the consultation document, issued in January 2011, had 11 references to rural crime. It would appear that during a time when we have witnessed dramatic rises in the instances of rural crime the Department of Justice still treats the issue as low priority. This strategy is a real missed opportunity to bring forward concrete proposals to reduce the level and fear of rural crime.
“Rural dwellers are understandably keen to protect their farms and businesses which they have spent years building up. Intruders are not only a risk to the farmer’s possessions but to their families and themselves.
“My colleague Robin Swann MLA and I have consistently raised this issue at the Agriculture Committee and whilst we are pleased that the Agriculture Minister has met with the PSNI Chief Constable, we would like to see much more in the way of a joined-up approach with immediate practical steps being taken to stamp out rural criminals – so far this has not happened.
Mr Swann, MLA for North Antrim said: “This document, which promises so much is incredibly light when it comes to the detail of how these promises will be turned into reality. People living in rural communities are looking to the Executive for practical measures and not just high level policies.
“All the Department of Justice’s short, medium and long term aims may, at first glance look good on paper, but we will not see any dramatic reductions in rural crime until specific and practical ideas are brought forward and put into practice.
“The Ulster Unionist Party will continue to stand up for the rights of farmers and rural communities to live free from the fear of crime and will continue to press Executive Ministers to treat his matter as a priority."