In September 2021, my Department established the multi-agency review arrangements, known as MARA, to assess and manage the risks posed by terrorist risk offenders (TROs). That is in line with article 50 of the Criminal Justice (Northern Ireland) Order 2008, which makes provision for the management of offenders who may cause serious harm to the public. In discharging that function, MARA brings together the Department of Justice and supervising officers appointed on the Department’s behalf, along with representatives from the Northern Ireland Prison Service and the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

Terrorist risk offenders are managed under MARA from the point of conviction through to the expiry of their licence period. Under the arrangements, supervising officers work with partners to conduct risk assessments; prepare risk management plans; provide reports for review by the Parole Commissioners for Northern Ireland; and monitor those offenders who have been released into the community. Those arrangements enhance and support public protection.