Ministers have published their proposals for tackling anti-social behaviour in Ulster.

The government hopes to extend the system of ASBOs, or anti-social behaviour orders, from England and Wales to the province.

Under the system, police officers and district councils would be able to apply to a magistrate for an order, which could instruct a person not to visit a certain area, or be used as part of criminal sentencing proceedings.

Breaches of an order could be punishable by up to five years in prison.

"Anti-social behaviour can cause people to feel tremendous distress and harassment," said Northern Ireland minister John Spellar.

"I'm confident these will go a long way in removing this blight from local communities."

The proposals will go out for public consultation over the next four weeks.

The minister insisted he was "committed to bringing forward the necessary legislation as soon as possible to protect both individuals and the community".