The Department of Justice is seeking to appoint a new Prisoner Ombudsman for Northern Ireland.

The Prisoner Ombudsman is responsible for investigating complaints from prisoners and visitors as well as deaths in prison service custody in Northern Ireland.

Justice Minister Naomi Long said: "The Prisoner Ombudsman holds an important investigative role in the criminal justice system and is vital in helping to ensure widespread confidence in the prison system. It is a challenging but rewarding role, ensuring independent and impartial investigation of complaints and deaths in custody. If you have an interest in the criminal justice system and believe you have the necessary skills and experience, I would encourage you to apply."

The role will be for up to three years from the date of appointment, which is expected to be October 2024. There may be an opportunity for reappointment.

The post holder will be required to work a four-day week. The post will be remunerated on a fixed point for the term of appointment at £67,256 (this reflects that the role is 0.8 FTE).

The period for applications closes at 12:00pm on Thursday 22 August 2024.

Notes to editors:

1. Candidate information packs and applications forms are available at the publication section of this website.

2. Copies are also available as follows:

Telephone: 028 9052 6496 or 028 9052 0114

• EMAIL

By writing to:
Prisoner Ombudsman Competition 2024
Department of Justice, Public Appointments
Room B5.12, Castle Buildings
Stormont Estate
Belfast, BT4 3SG.

3. The Department of Justice is committed to the principles of public appointments based on merit with independent assessment, openness and transparency of process. The Department is committed to providing equality of opportunity for all applicants. Applications are welcomed regardless of age, gender, disability, marital status, religion, ethnic origin, political opinion, sexual orientation or whether or not you have dependents. In keeping with the NICS Policy on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, we would also welcome applications from those not currently serving on public bodies.

4. Applications are particularly welcome from people from minority ethnic, women, those under the age of 40, and people with a disability.

5. For all media enquiries, please contact the Press Office via EMAIL

6. Out of office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 028 9037 8110.

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