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

I am aware of the tragic case of Joe Drennan. I am not going to talk about it, as I am sure the Deputy can appreciate. The matter is being appealed by the DPP to the Court of Appeal and it would be inappropriate for me to say anything in respect of it.

I will speak in general terms about where multiple offences have been committed. Sentences imposed in response to multiple offences can be imposed concurrently, consecutively or a combination of both. Offences committed while on bail, in custody or while a suspended sentence is in place attract consecutive sentences. That is provided for expressly in legislation. Section 11 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 states, as I said previously, that if a person commits an offence while on bail, the sentence should run consecutively. There is also section 13 of the Criminal Law Act 1976, which states that if a person commits an offence while serving a sentence, such as a suspended sentence, the sentence should run consecutively. More recently, the Criminal Justice (Burglary of Dwellings) Act 2015 provides for consecutive sentences in relation to certain burglary offences. The law provides for it, therefore, but I appreciate and understand the Deputy's concern.

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