Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Tuesday, 8 October 2024

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality

Examination of the Drivers of Violence and Criminality: Discussion

4:00 pm

Photo of Pa DalyPa Daly (Kerry, Sinn Fein)
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I thank Dr. Lambert for her responses so far. We are discussing this in a week when there was a death in Cloverhill Prison. I extend my sympathies to the Salinger family. I will not make any further comment on that matter.

Some questions asked by Senator Ruane reminded me of working in Georgia in the US where one of the district attorneys said that he would seek the death penalty in every case where someone had been killed. Dr. Lambert will not be surprised to hear that the murder rate did not decrease in his area as a result.

On the discussion about Garda presence on the street, it is important and communities all over the State say the part of the mission statement of An Garda Síochána about addressing the fear of crime is just as important as addressing crime and its causes. People need to be given some reassurance. Through a large public order event or in cities and towns on a Saturday night, the presence of gardaí does make a difference.

Turning to Dr. Lambert's opening statement, will she elaborate on what she means by socialisation of male offenders? She mentioned the Garda diversion scheme. Should the age limits on it be revised upwards? Does she have a view on the importance of restorative justice in the justice system? She is on the Parole Board. Am I correct?