The Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) has launched a discussion paper examining how it can contribute to a reduction in offending.

Later this year, NIPS plans to launch an improvement programme called Prisons 2020, which will be shaped by the outcome of its consultation with the wider criminal justice sector.

NIPS head Ronnie Armour, writing in the foreword, said: “Since the devolution of Policing and Justice in 2010 our Prison Service has undergone major transformational change.

“In 2011 Dame Anne Owers and her Review Team outlined a clear pathway for reform focused on the urgent need for structural, operational and cultural change.

“In 2016 the Ministerial Group overseeing the implementation of Dame Anne’s recommendations reported that over 90 per cent had been delivered or signed off.

“While that was a very positive development for NIPS we cannot be complacent. NIPS is therefore committed to embedding the change delivered and focused on driving continuous improvement both in the service we provide and the way we provide it.”

He added: “Prisons 2020 will be the vehicle by which we do so.”

The consultation will last until 29 September 2017. The Prisons 2020 programme is planned to run for three years from autumn 2017.

Its outcomes will be delivered in stages and regular reports will be provided to the Justice Minister and the justice committee.