Ivana Bacik (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the passage of the Parole Bill, which is long overdue, where we will be placing the parole board and process on a statutory framework and footing. It is in keeping with my party's long-standing policy and with many recommendations from different bodies, including the Joint Committee on Justice and Equality. I am grateful to the Minister of State, his officials and for the help and support others, including the Irish Penal Reform Trust.

The main purpose of parole is to increase community safety and it is in all of our interests that we have a structured system for release of prisoners who have been serving long-term sentences of imprisonment to ensure their rehabilitation and reintegration back into the community. This is in the interests of victims and of all us as a society. I look forward to the speedy implementation of the Bill and again thank colleagues and the Minister of State.