Brian Stanley (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

It seems to be taking a long time. As I recall, Judge Mary Martin promoted this approach a decade ago. It is acknowledged that it is a successful approach to reparation, which is very important for victims, but also in moving people away from reoffending. Why can the process not be accelerated? Ms McCaffrey has a problem with prison space and people have to be doubled up in cells that are not suitable. It would be better if the cells where there is slopping out were empty and we did not have prisoners in them. Most people would agree with that, but because of the pressure for space within the Prison Service, with approximately 3,500 prisoners, people are being committed to prison who will reoffend. Why are more programmes of restorative justice not being rolled out? It is a benefit, even if we only look at it from a financial position. That is one concern, but reducing crime and antisocial activity and improving community safety should be the big considerations. Why is this process not being driven on more quickly across the State?