The British and Irish governments are expected soon to announce new levels of co-operation on measures to protect children against sex offenders.
The Irish Times has learned that the Department of Justice and its Stormont equivalent are finalising arrangements for closer co-operation and information-sharing on those who may pose a risk to the public, especially children.
Northern Ireland's Multi-Agency Sex Offender Risk Assessment and Management body reported yesterday that the number of sex offenders being dealt with has risen by 15 per cent in the past year.
Established in 2002 , it says it anticipates new legislation to protect the public.
