Positive Action Group Public Meeting

Criminal Justice - why so many new laws?

A public debate between Hon Juan Watterson MHK (Minister for Home Affairs)

and civil liberties campaigner Tristram Llewellyn Jones

7.30 p.m. Monday 25th June 2012

Manx Legion Hall, Douglas

All Welcome - Admission Free

We all value our freedom, especially here in the Isle of Man, so when Government brings in legislation that threatens some of those freedoms it is inevitable that there will be much public concern.

The Government's 5 year legislative programme includes a number of criminal justice and social bills. Future bills include legislation on hatred, equality and interception of communications.

The first is the Criminal Justice, Police Powers and Other Amendments Bill 2012  currently out for public Consultation (closing 24 th July 2012).

This proposed Bill contains 35 Clauses and includes many contentious powers already rejected by the public and the Keys in the previous Bill. Importantly, the Police seek a power to arrest people, without a warrant, even before they have committed an offence. Other tricky powers include a Clause allowing the Department of Home Affairs to create an unlimited number of offences for which a child may be arrested, detained and questioned at a Police station.

We are delighted that Home Affairs Minister, Hon Juan Watterson MHK has agreed to 'lock horns' with civil liberties campaigner Tristram Llewellyn Jones.

The evening promises a lively debate on some very topical issues and as usual the audience will be invited to participate in the discussion.

Let your friends know - everyone is welcome - admission free!