Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I would like to raise a further issue with respect to section 20. Section 20(5) provides that when imposing a sentence on a person, a sentencing judge may impose a specified period during which that person shall not be eligible for parole. This connects with my earlier comments regarding mandatory life sentences for persons convicted of murder. Section 20(5) is a very significant provision and would require considerable consideration and further consultation. As I said to Deputy Wallace, whether this is a matter that should be considered in a parole Bill requires further consideration.