Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I join the Minister of State in welcoming the passing of this important legislation. For too long victims have been the poor relations in the criminal justice system and the State and the criminal justice system have looked on the process in the courts as being about the determination of the guilt or innocence of an accused. While that is the primary function of the system, we have to recognise that during the process victims should be at the forefront and that they need to be protected. Many Members receive representations about the actions of the Director of Public Prosecutions. "Why has an individual not been prosecuted?" is a constant refrain from families who believe justice has not been done. It is welcome that under Part 2 of the Bill people will be able to seek a review from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and information on the reasons a prosecution did or did not take place. It is a good day for the criminal justice system. It is important that we continue to adopt legislation that seeks to protect victims of crime. It is important that be recognised not just at the time of the criminal hearing but also throughout the process, even after a conviction or an acquittal has occurred.

See this speech in context