Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 27: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will establish a victim's council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34579/07]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I am committed to providing enhanced arrangements for the support of victims of crime consistent with the commitment in the Programme for Government. The Commission for the Support of Victims of Crime was established by my predecessor in March, 2005 with a three year remit. Part of its remit was to devise an appropriate support framework for victims of crime into the future. The members of the Commission comprise:

Mr. Jim McHugh, (Chairman), former Assistant Commissioner, An Garda Síochána,

Ms Nora Owen, former Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform,

Mr. Sean Lowry, former head of the Probation and Welfare Service,

Mr Michael Whelan, Gemini Consulting,

Ms Marian Finucane, broadcaster.

The Commission's term of office expires in March, 2008 prior to which it will have presented a draft policy framework document for victims of crime. I recently met with the Commission and following that meeting, I am of the view that this document will provide important insights into how support for victims of crime might be developed into the future. I propose, therefore, to await the outcome of the Commission's deliberations before embarking on an overhaul of the present arrangements.

As the Deputy may be aware, I am determined to ensure that the treatment of victims of crime is accorded a major priority in the criminal justice system. To that end, and in the context of the outcome of the deliberations of the Commission, I am prepared to take action in advance of any new statutory proposal that may emerge.