Dr. Clíona Saidléar:

The directive uses the phrase "without unnecessary delay" and that needs to be integrated across this legislation. It is missing in some key areas. It is important to include details as to when access to information is given and when rights are activated right at the very start. The Chairman referred to the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Bill. At the moment the legislation restricts the right of the accused to personally cross-examine the victim in cases involving children and we are very clear that this should apply to all ages in sexual violence cases. There is no reason why it should not.