Conor Lenihan (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

I am not sure whether the Deputy heard my answer. As I stated, two prisoners took a case arguing that the operation of the parole board is in conflict with the European Convention on Human Rights and the High Court upheld the Minister's executive role or responsibility in regard to parole decisions.

Recommendations on how the system may be improved, from the Human Rights Commission and others, are relevant and timely. I presume this is what Deputy Carey is alluding to. Suggestions have been made that the parole board should be placed on a statutory or independent basis. The Minister has informed me that he has an open mind on this issue and will consider it in the context of the ongoing review of the operations and arrangements pertaining to the parole board. He is ready to look at the issue and, if necessary, legislate for a statutory and independently based parole board if that is what is found to be the best option in terms of harmonising with the European Convention on Human Rights.

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