Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On behalf of the Fine Gael group I thank all Members for their co-operation. This morning we agreed to take all Stages today because this legislation is extremely important. The people voted on it which does not happen with every piece of legislation that comes before us. I agree with the Minister that it is a milestone. Justice delayed is justice denied and it is totally unacceptable for a case to take four years to reach the Supreme Court.

The engagement across the House has been very useful. On a recent trip to Stormont with the Oireachtas justice committee it was interesting to learn that the Chief Justice goes once a year to the justice committee in the North to discuss consistency in sentencing.

Perhaps that could be reconsidered as part of the evolution and bringing of our Courts Service into the modern era of accountability.

I also thank the Minister's officials. This is detailed legislation and we appreciate their input. It is for the good of Ireland and its citizens. I thank the Minister again.