Source · Select Committees · Northern Ireland Affairs Committee
Recommendation 17
17
Deferred
Paramilitary groups are fragmented; sub-group transition concept requires further development and consideration.
Conclusion
Paramilitary groups do not resemble cohesive units, rather they are composed of sub-groups that vary in location, strength of affiliation and level of criminal activity. We have heard that some sub-groups are readying themselves for transition, whilst others show little appetite to transition away from criminality. We see some merit in the argument that a process facilitating those willing to transition away from paramilitarism would then allow for the better training of law enforcement resources on those sub-groups that remain determined to cause harm. However, the concept of sub-group transition requires fuller development before its risks and opportunities can properly be considered by the Government and the political parties in Northern Ireland. (Paragraph 108) 52 The effect of paramilitary activity and organised crime on society in Northern Ireland
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges recommendations for a formal process to facilitate paramilitary group transition and commits to undertaking further independent scoping and engagement to assess its merit and support.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
The UK Government acknowledges the recommendations that have been made by the Independent Reporting Commission (IRC) and others who suggest that, in addition to the existing law enforcement, criminal justice and socio-economic response to paramilitarism, there should be a formal process of engagement aimed at facilitating paramilitary group transition to disbandment. We have engaged widely on these recommendations and it is clear that this is a complex and sensitive issue. For such a process to have potential to successfully deliver, it is likely to require support from local political leaders and communities across Northern Ireland, including those who have suffered violence and harm from paramilitary groups. The UK Government is committed to taking forward further work, including through independent scoping and engagement, to assess whether there is merit in and support for a formal process that ensures the transition to disbandment of paramilitary groups given the continuing impact of violence and harm on communities.