Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

Our criminal code still prohibits sexual offences against young persons, the crime of rape remains part of our law and the Garda and Director of Public Prosecutions are duty bound to uphold and enforce these laws.

Regarding the laws on sexual assault, there is a 14-year penalty for sexual assault on a minor, the penalty for forced and aggravated sexual assault is life and the charge of rape is addressed in section 4 of the Criminal Law (Rape) (Amendment) Act 1990. The legislation and sentences are in place. It is wrong, misleading and creates a sense of fear to say these Acts do not apply.

There is a significant issue with which we must deal. As I said last week, the matter is complex. I assure Deputy Kenny and the House that we have spent an enormous amount of time on this issue since last Wednesday. I will not get into an argument about whether we know Supreme Court or High Court judgments are coming down the track or whether we know what the Supreme Court will do.

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