Doorstaff must now be licensed

From April 1, it will become illegal under the Private Security Industry Act 2001 to work as an in-house door supervisor in Northern Ireland without holding a valid SIA licence.

Anyone found working without a SIA licence or in breach of conditions could be issued with a warning, prosecuted through the courts, or have their licence revoked or suspended.

Jacquie Parker, an SIA Head of Investigation, said: “Prosecution is the last resort but the SIA has this power.”

Ms Parker added: “On a recent awareness drive in Derry-Londonderry, we were very encouraged by the positive results. Of the sixteen licensed premises we visited in the city centre and the 35 door staff we spoke to, all were aware of the legislation and were already licensed.”

“We also received very positive feedback from door supervisors, who had gained their qualifications, held valid SIA licences and were now able to work throughout the UK – one of the benefits of holding a nationally recognised licence.”