Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge the support of the Senators. In answer to Senator Ruane, we are dealing with the recognition of probation judgments and decisions, as distinct from persons who would be serving prison sentences for serious crimes and misdemeanours. However, the point the Senator makes would have application in the event of post-release supervision in a signature country. There would be mutual recognition of frameworks, so it would not be possible for somebody to evade or avoid post-release supervision in one country that would not be applicable here or in another state. For probation and supervision, the framework would be broadly similar, because we are dealing with the application of the principle of mutual recognition of judgments on probation decisions. It is about harmonisation. I think that was the word used.

To come back to what Senator Boyhan said, the purpose of the Bill is simple: to allow a person placed under the supervision of probation services in one EU member state but who lives in another to return home. I acknowledge that there has been somewhat of a delay, as was mentioned by Senator Clifford-Lee. There are a number of reasons for that, the first of which is that the Bill will not have a huge application. It was not considered an urgent priority. Second, I have 115 Bills on my desk at various stages of debate. I availed myself of this window today to progress this one, which, although reasonably limited in application, nevertheless awaits processing. Of those 115 Bills, it is my intention to seek the co-operation of the House to process to finality ten of these over the next four weeks. I acknowledge the co-operation of the House on this Bill.