Enhanced Combination Orders (ECOs) were developed by the Probation Board for Northern Ireland (PBNI) with the former Lord Chief Justice (LCJ) to test a new approach to community sentencing as an alternative to a short prison sentence (less than 12 months). The LCJ noted that 88% of prison sentences imposed in this jurisdiction in the previous 12 months had been for one year or less. In addition, research had demonstrated that short prison sentences were ineffective in addressing offending behaviour, given that there was little that could be done in practical terms to rehabilitate those who had offended during a short prison stay.
ECOs combine enhanced supervision with other supports, including cross-agency where appropriate, along with Community Service and, where relevant, restorative justice interventions tailored to address the causes of offending. Also, and very importantly, there is a focus on mental health and wellbeing, addictions and other unmet needs which are known to increase the likelihood of reoffending.
To date ECO’s have been available in two Court areas; firstly, Ards and Armagh & South Down since October 2015, followed by Courts in the Northwest (Londonderry, Limavady and Strabane) since October 2018. Now these impactful orders will be rolled out in (Ballymena, Antrim and Coleraine) on 2nd June 2025.
It is important that solicitors are aware of the background to ECOs and why they can be effective for their clients. If you practice in the District Judges Court [Criminal], please come along to this session .
The event will be hosted and opened by the Sitting Judge, District Judge Broderick with input from Gillian Montgomery, Director of Operations, Probation Board NI, Jill Grant, Assistant Director, Probation Board NI and Terry McLaughlin, Area Manager, Probation Board NI. There will be an opportunity to ask questions at the end of the session.
