Eugene Regan (Fine Gael)

I mention an issue that has arisen in the Eamonn Lillis trial regarding the witness, Jean Treacy. The new Criminal Court complex facilitates the shielding of accused from the media, which is quite correct. For an accused it is prejudicial, humiliating and, as some judges in the Court of Criminal Appeal have indicated, can constitute contempt of court. For a condemned person it is a double penalty on top of imprisonment or other penalty he or she must serve. The issue that arises in this case is that of witnesses. It is normal for witnesses and the general public to enter the complex through the main entrance. In this case the witness was shielded from the media and there has been an outcry from the media. If a witness elects to be protected in this way one is entitled to such protection within the court complex. In this case Jean Treacy was a co-operative witness with the Garda. It is very important that anyone who elects to be shielded from the media in this way should be facilitated by the Garda in equal measure.