Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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365. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason there was no reference to any legislation designed to place the Interim Parole Board on a statutory basis in the document on his Department's website titled First Two Years of Government March 2011 – March 2013; the progress that has been on this Parole Board Bill; when he expects an independent body to replace the Interim Parole Board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28753/13]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I announced my intention in 2011 to enact legislation to place the Parole Board on a statutory footing which I believe will help to strengthen the Board and improve its functions. Decisions have to be finalised on exactly what role a statutory Parole Board should play, what powers it should have, and how it should fit into the overall criminal justice system.

I have also appointed a group to carry out a Strategic Review of Penal Policy who are examining all aspects of penal policy including parole and other release mechanisms from prison. I expect them to report later this year. When I have considered their recommendations, I will bring proposals forward to Government for a statutory Parole Board.