David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am very pleased to see this Bill finalised through the Houses. The rights provided for in this Bill will make a very real difference to the experiences of victims in the criminal justice process. The Bill has been drafted and improved upon with the assistance of many people and organisations. I would like to record my thanks and those of the Minister for Justice and Equality to all those working with victims who have contributed to the Bill before us. It is thanks to their active engagement that we have passed what I think is a very good legislation. The views of Opposition Deputies were also taken on board whenever possible.

I thank Members for their excellent contributions and the positive debate we have had. No legislation is ever perfect and the Bill will need careful monitoring to ensure it will deliver what it promises, but we have made a good start in recognising the role of victims of crime in the criminal justice system and ensuring they will be informed and supported throughout the process. I hope the majority of sections will be in force within weeks, with the entire Bill in force before the end of the year or early next year. I thank colleagues for their support and positive engagement. We will monitor the position and if something comes up that needs to be changed and improved on, we will try to do it, but we are all agreed that it is important that we support victims. I thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle, Members and staff for their assistance in making this happen.

See this speech in context