Anti-social behaviour legislation
Addressing the issue of Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) is a priority for the Department for Communities. A commitment to review ASB legislation was included in the draft Programme for Government 2016-2021, and this work remains ongoing.
Background and consultation
ASB is a term used to describe a wide range of behaviours that have a negative effect on quality of life and may cause minor disorder and incivilities. In 2018, the Department of Justice (DoJ) carried out a public consultation to review the criminal legislation framework to tackle ASB. Following that consultation a multi-agency, cross-departmental ASB Legislation Review Delivery Group was set up to take forward the out workings. This group, chaired by DoJ, consisted of representatives from DoJ, DfC, the Department of Agriculture, Environment & Rural Affairs (DAERA), the Northern Ireland Courts & Tribunals Service (NICTS), the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives (SOLACE), the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE), the Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Associations (NIFHA) and Belfast City Council.
The ASB Delivery Group considered nine legislative powers, of which DfC Housing Division identified two topics for future legislation: Injunctions against Anti-Social Behaviour and Absolute Grounds for Possession. DfC agreed with DoJ for these proposals to be published alongside their proposals in a combined consultation.
In November 2023, the Department embarked on the joint public consultation on these proposals, to seek views of stakeholders on the proposed amendments to ensure that powers available to relevant authorities are proportionate, effective and will have an appropriate impact on addressing ASB and its effects within our communities.
Outcome report
The Department for Communities has published an Outcome Report which presents the findings from a consultation on “Proposals to amend the legislation to help tackle anti-social behaviour (ASB) in Housing”.
Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) Final Report
The Department for Communities has published an Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) Final Report on proposals to amend legislation to help tackle Anti-Social Behaviour in Housing Outcome Report.