Clare Daly (Dublin Fingal, Independent) | Oireachtas source

We have really benefitted from the discussion we had on Committee Stage. In fairness, the Government has taken on a huge amount of what was discussed. I am a little concerned, however, that one of the very small number of my amendments that actually got accepted on Committee Stage has been changed now. On Committee Stage, when it was accepted, the purpose was ensuring that we comply with the victims directive in its entirety whereby members of the Garda shall arrange for individuals to be referred to appropriate or specialist services, or both. The directive uses the wording, "shall facilitate the referral...to victim support services". Article 8(1) uses the phrase, "in accordance with their specific needs." We wanted to ensure this provision would be honoured in all circumstances. I hear what the Minister is saying but I would have preferred the original format, to be honest.

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