Seanad debates
Wednesday, 2 December 2009
Criminal Procedure Bill 2009: Committee Stage (Resumed)
3:00 pm
Ivana Bacik (Independent)
I am grateful that the Minister has indicated his acceptance of the principle of my amendment. I was concerned about the lack of specificity in section 23 as it stands and I welcome that he plans to insert further qualifications or restrictions. He was probably more critical than I of the current wording of the section. This kind of with-prejudice appeal represents a radical departure, especially in the context of jury verdicts. Jury trials have long been a vital part of our criminal justice system and it is important that we minimise any impacts that would undermine them. I withdraw my amendment in light of the Minister's acceptance that the section as it stands does not strike the correct balance.
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