This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Antisocial Behaviour measures come into force
28/10/2004
New measures coming into force today as a result of the Antisocial Behaviour Act passed by the Scottish Parliament earlier this year.
They include local antisocial behaviour strategies, antisocial behaviour orders (ASBOs) for under 16s, dispersal of groups, closure of premises and new environmental powers come into effect. Other measures are scheduled to come into force over the coming months.
Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson said the measures were designed to help communities across Scotland stand up to the scourge of antisocial behaviour.
She continued:
"When we consulted on our proposals to deal with the problem of antisocial behaviour it was clear that we had struck a chord with the ordinary, hard-working people of Scotland.
"Decent people had had enough of the kind of behaviour that brings misery to lives and which knocks the stuffing out of a community's confidence. They wanted action.
"We listened to those concerns and we acted on them. By passing the Antisocial Behaviour Bill in June, the Parliament sent out a clear message that enough was enough - that our communities should have stronger measures to deal with the kind of behaviour that blights lives.
"We stood up for the law-abiding majority who care about their communities, by giving them the tools to stand up to the law-breaking minority who couldn't care less.
"We have put the legislation in place - and from today many of the provisions within the Act take effect.
"We have provided local authorities and local agencies with comprehensive guidance on all the measures - additional valuable tools for local authorities and local communities to deal with antisocial behaviour.
"From today, local authorities and the police will gain additional powers to tackle antisocial behaviour.
"They have a responsibility to their communities to use them whenever and wherever appropriate. I will be looking to them to do just that - and I will be looking to communities themselves to ensure that the potential of these new powers are translated into action on the ground.
"Antisocial behaviour is a problem - but my message to hard-working people across the country is a positive one.
"Antisocial behaviour need not be tolerated. The law is on your side. The Executive is on your side. Together with your support we can help deliver a safer, stronger Scotland."
The Antisocial Behaviour Bill received Royal Assent on July 26.
A timetable for commencement of every part of the Act is set out in a Guide to the Antisocial Behaviour etc. (Scotland) Act 2004