Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

The issue of DPP appeals against unduly lenient sentencing in serious cases before the court is to provide for a commitment. I do not have a date for that, but the matter has been referred by the Attorney General to the Law Reform Commission for consideration as a matter of urgent public interest. It has issued a consultation paper on the subject and a final report is awaited.

On the judicial issue, it is under discussion between the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Judiciary. The Tánaiste has given them the report. On the issue of the court case yesterday, it is being examined in the Department today. The eligibility for health and personal social services Bill will be introduced next year.

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