Seanad debates

Wednesday, 8 October 2003

Criminal Justice (Temporary Release of Prisoners) Bill 2001: Second Stage.

 

I have some sympathy with the comments of Senator Terry under paragraph (h). There has been some interesting and constructive media coverage regarding the possibility of the legislative process and the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform being too concerned with the offences and the offender and not being concerned enough with the victim. It strikes me that regarding certain crimes, though not all crimes, where serious physical injury is inflicted, for example, there should be a place in the consultation process for the victims involved. It is fine to get the recommendations of the prison governor, the gardaĆ­ and the probation and welfare officer, as they will all have considered views which will be helpful to the Minister. However, there is an ideal opportunity here for the Minister to stitch in a provision for consultation with victims in certain circumstances.

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