Joanna Tuffy (Labour)

Northern Ireland is not unique and is becoming the norm. We are the ones lagging behind. Countries all over the world have introduced reforms. I find it hard to understand, but I think the Minister is of the old guard and not prepared to move forward in regard to our policing structure. He is too conservative and wants to keep a hold on the situation. He should remember that he will not be the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform for ever. People will not trust him to take account of the recommendations of the Morris tribunal simply because he says he will. We need an independent policing authority to carry out these recommendations. We should examine examples of where this has been done in situations of crisis regarding policing in other countries where they have looked at and responded to the situation and implemented radical reforms such as those suggested by the Labour Party.