Police in the North are to be granted the power to arrest people for rioting without obtaining a warrant, it was confirmed today.
People found guilty of taking part in street disturbances could also face up to six months or a year in jail under new get-tough legislation.
Under the Criminal Justice (Northern Ireland) Order 2003, the maximum fine for riotous behaviour will remain at £5,000 sterling. Riotous behaviour will continue to be tried summarily, with the accused being tried in a magistrates court.
Announcing the measures, Northern Ireland Secretary Paul Murphy said: "This is a firm but proportionate response to behaviour that is both destructive and dangerous".
The British government said in the past when disturbances had taken place it had proven impractical to require police to obtain a warrant.
New sanctions were also being introduced against those offenders who break the conditions of their bail.
Under the new legislation if a person fails to surrender him or herself to custody, they could face up to three months in jail and/or a fine of £5,000.
SDLP Policing Board member Mr Alex Attwood said the new measures against rioters would only be effective if they were used properly.
"The answer to many street disturbances is better policing, more severe penalties, active mediation and proper local leadership," he said.
"All elements are needed to calm public disorder and ease tensions. "Today's announcement of arrest for rioting without warrant, harsher rioting penalties and tougher bail for rioters can help if the new powers are used and used properly.
"The use of the law and the courts is not an alternative to people and communities using all efforts to get people off the streets and calm local difficulties but the measure can help."
Democratic Unionist MP Mr Nigel Dodds welcomed the new powers granted to the police but called for more resources to tackle disorder.
"In addition to these new powers it is vital that other tools are employed in the battle against those who have no respect for law and order," the North Belfast MP said.
"The success of CCTV projects must be built upon and the police must be afforded the necessary extra resources, both in terms of equipment and manpower, to ensure that law abiding citizens are able to live free of a continual cycle of violent behaviour.
"The introduction of new powers must be exercised by the police without fear or favour. Republicans must not feel that they are exempt from the long arm of the law."
PA