This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Debate on protection of emergency workers
15/01/2004
A debate on the protection of emergency workers was held
in Parliament today.
Finance Minister Andy Kerr said that the Executive was
determined to protect emergency service workers from
assault or abuse as they undertake their life saving
duties.
The Executive is currently consulting on proposed
legislation that will make it an offence to assault,
obstruct or hinder emergency workers in an emergency
situation and those assisting them.
It is working with key partners and a member of the STUC
has already been seconded to work with the Executive on
developing a package of preventative measures to protect
workers.
Mr Kerr said:
"Attacks on emergency workers are totally unacceptable.
Such assaults not only put both the worker at risk but also
the lives of those they are trying to help. This will not
be tolerated.
"We have listened to the views of trade unions and other
key partners and we have acted. We are nearing the end of
our consultation that is seeking views on the detail of the
legislation.
"The proposed legislation will make it a specific
offence to assault, obstruct or hinder an emergency worker
in an emergency situation.
"The proposed legislation will be backed up by a wider
package of measures in an effort to prevent attacks
occurring in the first place. This will include increased
use of CCTV, partnership working, training and awareness
and educational campaigns."