Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

The DPP has stated that he might be asked for his views on legislation dealing with prosecution. He has set out his view on that issue in several speeches. The present DPP has been forthcoming on these issues.

It is clear from his scripts that he views the amount of angst caused to families, other relatives and friends when detail is not supplied as a worrying trend. He argues equally that there are times when that is difficult because if it is not given in every case people distinguish between one case and another. He seems to come down in favour of the argument that it would be better to give more detail so that the public, particularly those involved, are able to see a more factual position.

In one speech he made several provisos showing how difficulty this is in many cases. From a non-legal point of view it is a good thing if the public can see more detail of the rationale behind decisions, making them more understandable.

See this speech in context