Eugene Regan (Fine Gael)

The purpose of these amendments is to take account of the position of victims of crime and to provide them with legal representation. Amendment No. 18 refers to the information given by the Garda Síochána to victims of crime in terms of early release on bail and the terms of such release. Amendment No. 19 refers to information in respect of parole and the notice of prosecution for breach of conditions of release, the way in which this information would be provided and the notice of discharge, leave of absence or escape of an accused or offender and the way in which he or she would be notified. There is also an amendment in respect of deportation and provision for the appointment of a representative to receive these notices. The other provisions are in the same vein and are designed to ensure the victims of crime receive the requisite information in respect of the convicted person. This is in accord with the basic EU framework decision on the standing of victims in criminal proceedings. We are trying to enhance the position of victims of crime and to provide them with reasonable information in all circumstances.