Thematic report on the International Co-operation Unit

1. ICU should continue to ensure that a co‑ordinated approach is taken to reinforcing its high profile within international circles through a planned timetable of engagements and interactions. (See Recommendation 1)

2. There should be flexibility in the allocation of different types of work within ICU for staff development purposes. All personal development plans should include measures aimed at facilitating a smooth transition for staff moving to other positions within COPFS, including opportunities to retain existing and general skills such as court advocacy. (See Recommendation 2)

3. ICU should prepare and publish a defined and agreed strategic purpose and remit for the Unit to clarify and raise awareness of its role within COPFS. (See Recommendation 3)

4. If the role of ICRDs is retained, the good practice points identified in part 3 should be implemented. (See Recommendation 4)

5. An improved IT system with mandatory fields to ensure the accuracy and reliability of ICU data should be introduced. (See Recommendation 5)

6. In absence of a new IT system, the recommendations in part 5 for improving the existing ICU Live system should be implemented. (See Recommendation 6)

7. A comprehensive checklist of the procedures and requirements for local prosecutors seeking to obtain a European Arrest Warrant (EAW) or international warrant through ICU is prepared and publicised by ICU. ICU should issue standard instructions in every such case to the Federation seeking the warrant. (See Recommendation 7, 8, 9, and 10)

8. A complete list of all cases in each Federation with an EAW or international warrant is collated by ICU and circulated to each Federation. (See Recommendation 7, 8, 9, and 10)

9. Guidance should be published on the requirements to be undertaken prior to the withdrawal of a domestic warrant in cases where there is also a European or international warrant. There should be clarity on who has responsibility for monitoring and reviewing cases with EAWs or international warrants within the Federations. (See Recommendation 7, 8, 9, and 10)

10. A process should be introduced to ensure that no domestic warrant relating to a solemn case can be withdrawn without a check being made to see if there is an EAW or international warrant in existence. (See Recommendation 7, 8, 9, and 10)

11. Key performance indicators should be introduced as part of a performance framework for the main areas of ICU work. (See Recommendation 11)