Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I probably should have stressed that, while we are working on the modernisation programme and while we need to have a more effective way to gather data in the courts, information and data are available. For example, with regard to the increase in the maximum sentence for assault causing harm from five to ten years has come about through reflecting on other sentencing, working with the DPP and getting information through other sources. There is information available that is helping to feed into policy where changes are needed. On the whole, the modernisation of the justice sector, including my Department, the Garda, the Courts Service and the Prison Service, is very important and will be a valuable tool in ensuring the information we have is at our fingertips and readily available.

I mentioned the report in which Brigid McManus looks at the number and type of judges we have, and there is the OECD work. Work like that will not be delayed in the way it has been once we have those structures in place. It is not to say there is no information or work being done gathering that but it is one part of the puzzle and will tie many bits together.

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