Lucinda Creighton (Dublin South East, Fine Gael)
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Question 155: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress that has been made on introducing, in view of the A case, a strict liability regime for the offence of sexual intercourse with a minor; if his preference is for a legislative or a Constitutional avenue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34481/08]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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The Joint Committee on the Constitutional Amendment on Children has been examining the Twenty-Eighth Amendment of the Constitution Bill 2007, published in February 2007 by the Minister for Health and Children. That Bill provided wording for inclusion in the Constitution on the rights of children which would be put to the people in a referendum. The wording included a provision that would allow the Oireachtas to pass laws providing for offences of absolute or strict liability committed against children under 18 years of age. The Committee is due to report to the Oireachtas by the end of November.

I am awaiting the Report of that Committee. However, consultations have taken place with the Attorney General on the options for legislation that may be available. Whatever recommendations may emerge from the Joint Committee's Report, I am determined to ensure, be it through a constitutional amendment, further legislation or a combination of both, that greater protection against sexual abuse and exploitation will be provided for children and other vulnerable people in our society.