Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Yes. That Bill is before the House and, like a considerable number of pieces of legislation in the justice area. I am anxious to ensure the full co-operation of the House in order that such important legislative measures can be placed in the Statute Book before we rise for the summer recess.

I take on board what the Deputy said about the Women's Aid report. I was not present this morning as I was attending the Cabinet meeting, but my colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy David Stanton, has discussed some very important and sensitive issues that were raised at the meeting. In the context of my deliberations, I am keen to reach out to advocacy groups in order to ensure we can have the best possible supports for women, girls and victims. I intend to do this. I also acknowledge the facilities in place for victims in courts throughout the land. I refer to the multimillion euro Courts Service budget for courthouses, the most recent of which was opened in Waterford.

The standard courtroom facility will now have victim support rooms and suites for vulnerable witnesses. I am keen to ensure that the court is no longer a place of intimidation or discomfort or a strange place, particularly for victims of sexual and domestic offences.

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