Joanne Collins (Sinn Fein)

I welcome the Minister to the House. I am pleased to stand in support of this Bill. I commend Senator Lynn Ruane and her team on the thoughtful and considered proposal.

The Bill addresses the clear procedural gap in the current parole framework, one that undermines natural justice and leaves applicants vulnerable to decisions made on the basis of undisclosed evidence without any avenue, response or redress. What the Bill proposes is modest, balanced and grounded in best practice. The Bill proposes the introduction of special advocates - legally trained and security-cleared professionals - who can represent the interests of the parole applicant where sensitive information is being withheld. These advocates will not share the information with the applicant, but will be empowered to scrutinise it, challenge it where necessary and ensure the parole board receives a full and fair picture before reaching its decision. This is not about tipping the scales in favour of applicants. Rather, it is about ensuring that the scales are even in the first place. It is about putting in place clear legal safeguards where the term "discretion" is currently undefined and unchecked.

The inclusion of the statutory definition of "exceptional circumstances", drawing on models from jurisdictions like the Six Counties, is another strength in the Bill. It gives clarity to applicants, legal representatives and the Parole Board. It reinforces public confidence in the fairness and integrity of parole decisions. In my county, Limerick, and elsewhere across the State, people want a justice system that is fair and firm in equal measure. They understand that rehabilitation, where appropriate, should be supported, but it must happen in a transparent framework.

The Bill does not diminish victims' rights or compromise public safety. Instead, it protects the integrity of the process that must be seen to operate above reproach. Sinn Féin supports the Bill because it strengthens fairness, accountability and trust in the parole system. I urge the Government to do the same.