SECURITY FOR PRISON OFFICERS IN NORTHERN IRELAND

Early day motion 1855, tabled 3 November 2003 by Neil Gerrard (Labour). Signed by 52 members.

That this House notes with concern the increasing number of attacks on the homes of prison officers in Northern Ireland, which has led to the present industrial action being taken by prison officers in Northern Ireland, and the danger thereby posed to security both in Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK; further notes the anxiety felt by prison officers and their families at the inadequate level of protection they are able to afford in comparison with other public servants in the Province who are entitled to over twice their allowance; and therefore calls upon the Government to enter immediately into negotiations with the Prison Officers' Association to resolve this financial disparity and ensure adequate protection for prison officers in Northern Ireland and their families.

Signatures by party: Labour 42, Liberal Democrat 5, Conservative 1, Independent 1, Independent Conservative 1, Labour/Co-operative 1, UUP 1.