Sexual Offences Order laid in Parliament

Tough new legislation to tighten the law in relation to sexual offences will be extended to Northern Ireland.

Those found guilty of sexual activity involving a child under 13 will face the prospect of a life sentence.

Rape and other serious sexual assaults will also be punishable with a maximum sentence of life and this new legislation provides protection up to the age of 18 for offences of familial sexual abuse, where an adult is in a position of trust, or where prostitution or pornography are involved.

The proposed changes reflect Northern Ireland’s position as a mature and modern society and brings the age at which the law recognises consent, into line with the rest of the UK.

Too often the debate concerning the Sexual Offences Order has centred on the issue of lowering the age of consent, whilst ignoring the powerful range of measures to toughen up action against sex offenders. In addition to bringing the law into line with the rest of the UK these measures are widely supported by groups regularly working with abused children – such as Bernardo’s and NSPCC.

The new offences include:

Sexual activity involving a child under 13 can mean a maximum life sentence;

Sexual activity with anyone under 16 means a maximum sentence of 14 years;

Rape and other serious sexual assault means a maximum of life;

Offences of familial sexual abuse, or where an adult is in a position of trust, will
protect young people up to 18;

Offences involving abuse of young people in prostitution or pornography will likewise protect those up to 18;

Offences relating to making, taking and possessing indecent images of children will be extended to apply to children up to 18 instead of 16 as at present.