The PSNI announced today (24 April) that since the legislation was introduced in April 2022, 88 alleged stalkers have been arrested and 47 have been charged.

The Protection from Stalking Act was introduced to the Assembly by Alliance Party leader and then Justice Minister Naomi Long MLA and became an Act last year.

The North Down MLA said: “These figures from the PSNI demonstrate both the extent of the horrendous crime of stalking in Northern Ireland and the good work undertaken by the PSNI in bringing perpetrators to justice.

“The significant number of arrests shows how crucial the introduction of this legislation was for victims of this crime. I'm proud that my party leader Naomi Long MLA was able to introduce the bill as Justice Minister and worked closely with victims who have shared their personal experiences and helped to shape the bill.

“We must ensure that victims of this crime continue to feel confident enough to report it to the police and that they are given all the support necessary while the criminals are brought to justice.

“This legislation and the action taken by the PSNI to enforce it is also a tribute to how local politics can deliver much needed change and progress in our society. We must now build on this progress and restore the institutions to drive forward the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) strategy.

“While this strategy was due to go out for consultation in early 2023, it cannot move forward without ministerial sign off from a First Minister and Deputy First Minister.

“Tackling this issue requires significant society-wide and cross-departmental working and collaboration, which isn’t possible without an Executive or a functioning Assembly in place. It is a disgrace that the VAWG strategy has effectively hit a brick wall due to one party’s unwillingness to provide government for the people of Northern Ireland.”