WREXHAM Glyndwr University received a visit from the Commission on Justice in Wales to speak with students and practitioners from across North East Wales.

The Commission, set up by the First Minister last year, is tasked with examining the operation of the justice system in Wales and setting a long-term vision for its future.

Commissioners have been asked to ensure the justice system is fit for purpose by speaking to people and organisations across Wales about the current system and asking how it can be improved.

Chaired by Lord Thomas of Cwmgiedd, the former Lord Chief Justice for England and Wales, the Commission is set to deliver its report in 2019.

The sessions at Wrexham Glyndwr University this week formed part of a day of events for the Commission in North East Wales and gave Commissioners the opportunity to hear people’s initial views on the justice system and current challenges.

Lord Thomas said: “Justice is central to the future prosperity of Wales and the well-being of people and communities. Evidence is fundamental to the work of the Commission, and students at Wrexham Glyndwr University and practitioners from across North East Wales made very valuable contributions to the discussions with commissioners”.

The university’s criminology and policing students spoke directly with the commissioners about their work, criminal justice practice in Wales and their reasons for studying at a Welsh university.

At a second session, devoted to criminal justice, the public’s experience of crime and the promotion of rehabilitation brought together organisations from across North Wales. This included those working to tackle domestic abuse, substance misuse and rape and sexual abuse as well as those working on youth justice, witness support and in probation.

Dr Iolo Madoc-Jones , reader in Criminology and Criminal Justice, added: “Wrexham Glyndwr University works to make sure our criminology and policing students can make the most of opportunities like this to meet key decision makers. I would like to thank the Commissioners for their visit and we look forward to contributing further to their work over the coming months.”