Clare Daly (Dublin Fingal, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Deputy O'Callaghan and I have tabled amendments with similar provisions. The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission has recommended the establishment of an ombudsman for the victims of crime and a complaints procedure and these are now urgent. The other amendment deals with the training of people working within the justice system. If we are not allowed to table these amendments, I would appeal to the Minister to do so. They are in keeping with recital 62 of the victims' directive and the advice of all human rights advisory bodies. The establishment of a human rights one-stop shop is urgent, particularly given that the commission for the support of victims of crime no longer exists. All funding to these organisations is directed by the victims of crime office, which is a mad state of affairs. The Victims' Rights Alliance, who have appeared before us on occasions over the past four years, have met with all ombudsman offices and they would be happy to team up with them to deal with the issue. If we cannot deal with it, can the Government deal with it?