Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I wish to ask the Taoiseach the policy on remission of sentences. Concern is growing that in serious cases, remission is reduced by one quarter when prisoners arrive at the prison gates. Obviously, that serves to undermine confidence in the justice system and represents a disregard for victims. Can the Taoiseach confirm that the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform has the sole responsibility and power on behalf of the Government to set out the rules and regulations governing the remission of sentences?

The Taoiseach will be aware of the public outrage that followed the murder of Detective Garda Jerry McCabe. Can he confirm that one of the people convicted of manslaughter in that case is being released from Castlerea Prison with full remission having served eight of the 11 years imposed on him?

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