Members of the CGI Team (L-R): Martin Jebb, Michelle Sherrard, Paul Addison and Stuart Gunning
Innovative technology enhances enforcement of non-molestation orders and helps safeguard vulnerable individuals
Belfast, Northern Ireland, 29 April 2025 – CGI (TSX: GIB.A) (NYSE: GIB) one of the largest independent IT and business consulting services firms in the world, and key stakeholders from the justice sector recently gathered at the Northern Ireland Assembly for a critical discussion on the benefits provided by Project Shield, an initiative aimed at improving the enforcement of non-molestation orders using existing Police National Database (PND) technology.
The event highlighted the need for a national database to ensure real-time access to protective orders, strengthen inter-agency coordination, and improve safeguarding for victims of domestic abuse.
Delivering the keynote address, Martin Jebb, Director, Policing & Public Safety Sector at CGI in the UK, detailed the transformational impact of Project Shield in improving the management and enforcement of non-molestation orders. Developed in partnership with North Yorkshire Police, HM Courts & Tribunals Service, and Independent Domestic Abuse Services (IDAS), Project Shield has revolutionised information-sharing capabilities, giving police officers real-time access to crucial safeguarding data. It uses a combination of improved, more frequent information flow, process optimisation and technology to ensure that non-molestation orders are correctly marked and made visible in a timely fashion for all who need to be aware.
“Currently, police officers often lack the information needed to immediately act on protective orders,” explained Jebb. “Without a national database, enforcement can be slow, inconsistent, and ineffective—placing victims at risk and making it harder to hold perpetrators accountable. Project Shield has changed this situation by integrating these orders into the Police National Database, ensuring officers nationwide can access critical information instantly.”
“This initiative has already demonstrated its effectiveness, allowing officers to intervene swiftly when breaches occur, offering a level of protection that simply wasn’t possible before. It is imperative that we build on this success and establish a national, standardised system to close existing gaps in victim protection.”
Michelle Sherrard, Director, Consulting Services for Northern Ireland at CGI, reinforced the company’s commitment to delivering technology-driven solutions that enhance public safety and improve justice system efficiency.
“Victims of domestic abuse should not have to shoulder the responsibility of ensuring their own protective measures are enforced. The justice system must work for them, not against them. Too often, survivors are forced to carry physical copies of court orders and provide proof of their own protection, which is simply unacceptable in today's digital age.”
“Project Shield has proven that the right technology can reduce these barriers, providing law enforcement with the tools to act swiftly and decisively. By modernising outdated processes and ensuring immediate access to protective measures, we can significantly improve the safeguarding framework. CGI is proud to play a pivotal role in this effort, working closely with justice agencies to drive forward innovation in public safety,” she added.
Discussions at the event underscored the urgent need for a national database to store and manage civil protection orders. A standardised digital system would enhance enforcement, improve inter-agency coordination, and provide stronger, more immediate protection for victims.
CGI continues to work with governments and justice agencies to develop innovative technology solutions that enhance public safety. The company is also delivering the Department of Justice’s Themis Programme, which aims to modernise IT systems across Northern Ireland’s civil, family, and criminal courts, improving efficiency and accessibility in the justice system.
