The announcement was made by Justice Minister Naomi Long today (Thursday 5 September). The programme, which crosses several Executive Departments, aims to break the cycle of paramilitary control and organised crime seen in many areas of our society.

“Paramilitaries are a cancer on our community, exerting coercive control on often vulnerable people, and carrying out threats and violence on a daily basis,” said Mr Dickson.

“The programme on tackling paramilitarism and organised crime carries out a vital role to stop people getting caught in the spiral that can lead to paramilitarism, while also attempting to intervene on paramilitary groups and organised crime gangs in the here and now.

“Therefore it is welcome to hear the announcement today about the extension for another three years of this programme. However, the Executive matches its financial contribution to the programme with the UK Government, and we now need it to confirm they remain committed to this important work, in order to ensure full delivery of the programme.

“Good work has been carried out under this programme and I have no doubt lives have been saved. It’s now vital we don’t let that slip.”