Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

A number of questions arise from this matter. We must accept that one of society's duties is to vindicate the rights of citizens to peaceably enjoy this society. Part of this duty involves ensuring, as far as possible, that when a wrong is committed against a citizen, justice is seen to be done. Perhaps the DPP's office, the Chief State Solicitor's office or the Garda Síochána need to liaise with victims of serious crime to a much greater extent. Certain well-publicised cases over the past number of years consisted of an ongoing series of events, but no information was given to the families of those who were murdered or otherwise affected by crime, which caused them great trauma and stress. There should be dedicated liaison officers within the DPP's office, the Chief State Solicitor's office and the Garda Síochána to inform victims of the progress of the case.

The DPP and his office should be able to make submissions on behalf of the people so that society can have a voice in the range of sentences handed down by judges in court. Would the Taoiseach consider it appropriate if, prior to a sentence being handed down, the DPP, on behalf of the people, voiced an opinion on the range of sentences available? It is only a convention that this does not happen and it might be very useful if it did happen.

Will the Taoiseach progress the issues of dedicated liaison officers and the opportunity for the DPP to voice an opinion on behalf of society in so far as the Nally report is concerned?

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