Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)

When he gets to his feet, the Minister might clarify the precise whereabouts of the Taoiseach. Tonight, our justice spokesperson, Deputy Carthy, brings forward a very important piece of legislation - a Bill that would allow courts to impose a restraining order on someone convicted of a sexual assault, preventing them from approaching the victim when released from prison. Not alone would this increase protection for victims but also play a really important role in women regaining the sense of safety so violently robbed from them, and provide them with the security they need to rebuild their lives. This legislation has been called for by victims and it has been shaped by them and their traumatic experiences and insights.

It is supported by front-line organisations, including the Rape Crisis Centre. I ask that the Government not block this vital legislation and that it support its passage to Committee Stage and urgently into law because victims cannot wait any longer.

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