Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 174: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he is satisfied that all existing legislation protects children; and the position regarding this matter. [9113/07]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I assume the Deputy is referring to the protection afforded by the criminal law to children against sexual abuse.

I am satisfied that the criminal law offers comprehensive protection to children against sexual abuse. However, these laws are kept under continuing review and if the need for amending legislation is identified the necessary action is taken. Since the early 1990s there have been many Acts giving greater protection to children and other vulnerable persons against sexual abuse. In that period the Oireachtas has passed eight pieces of legislation that dealt directly with sexual offences and several more that were relevant to protecting children and the trial process.

The Report of the Joint Committee on Child Protection was laid before the Oireachtas on 30 November and was published on that day. In conjunction with my colleague, the Minister for Children, I am examining this comprehensive report with a view to bringing proposals for implementation of its recommendations strengthening the laws on child protection to Government for approval.