The public consultation period for a new Criminal Justice Bill to be introduced on the Isle of Man has been extended until just before Xmas.

There has already been significant protest about the Bill from a broad spectrum of society which some believe will give almost `Stasi' like powers to the Police.

There are concerns that the bill will further erode civil liberties. Police powers of entry without warrant are to be extended and the retention of personal details such as fingerprints and DNA will also be allowed.

Figures in the legislature had spoken out about the Bill and in addition some local authorities aired concerns.

This pressure undoubtedly led to the Islands Department of Home Affairs extending the consultation period by a paltry few weeks. However the whole exercise has been somewhat cynical as the Bill, which runs to 279 pages, needs to be extensively cross-referenced with existing legislative provision if any so-called consultative submission is to do it justice.

The Isle of Man enjoys comparatively low levels of crime and police public relations are extremely positive. It is doubtful that new draconian powers of questionable value will improve this situation and every possibility that a crass application of the new powers (should they be introduced) will setback police/community cohesion.

Despite the concerns the DHA will probably press on regardless. In recent years it has demonstrated an obsession with legislative provision and the latest consultative charade will produce little amendment if previous practice is anything to go by.

J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League

08/12/09

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