Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)

Briefly as regards (g), it would not oblige a court to follow other previous judgments made in respect of a person. However, if a person has been refused bail on eight occasions, why should this not be brought to the attention of the ninth judge? It would be strange if a judge were not to hear that type of material evidence.

As regards subsection 5(a), extending the period for production of the statement by the applicant, the Deputy is correct that the section does not, in fact, specify a period. I will consider this between now and Report Stage, but I believe what is meant is that it must be done at the time the person is making his or her application. If a person comes to court without it, he or she can be asked to give the statement then, during the day or whatever, which amounts to an extension as regards the further information required. I will examine this to see if there is a point there.

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