Lorraine Higgins (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I request that the Minister for Justice and Equality comes into the House to discuss the possibility of introducing minimum sentences for those convicted of certain crimes. I raise this in light of the decision reached by the Australian court in the Jillian Meagher case. Justice was not only seen to be done but it was done and the convicted killer got a minimum sentence of 35 years. While it will not bring back the family members' daughter, sister or wife, there is some comfort to a family to know that the perpetrator will not see the light of day for a 35 year period, at a minimum. Ireland must strive for such standards in our criminal justice system. Murder is premeditated, thought out and planned. Therefore, minimum sentences should be standard in murder cases and all premeditated crimes. We need a strong message and to introduce active deterrents to prevent a revolving door system in our criminal system in Ireland.