Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

I wish to make a brief contribution. I welcome the Bill. My party spokesperson, Senator Brian Hayes, spoke previously and we commend the Bill. Will the Minister clarify one point from his speech regarding section 42? It states the jurisdiction of the general court martial will be amended to include cases of rape or aggravated sexual assault where the person who committed the offence is or was at the time subject to military law. The jurisdiction is conditional on the consent of both that person and the Director of Public Prosecutions. When I examined the Schedule, I did not see what would be the penalty. It mentions six-month sentences for various offences. What would be the penalty for such a serious matter? Will the Minister clarify this in his reply to the debate?

I am glad RACO and PDFORRA were consulted on the Bill. My party supports the main thrust of the Bill.