Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 173: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the timeframe for the examination of the competency legislation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14544/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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The issue raised in the Question is the competency of persons with an intellectual disability to give evidence in court, in particular in cases of alleged sexual offences. This is a sensitive and complex subject, and following an examination of the issues involved, I have concluded that a more detailed review of the matter is warranted. Projects included in the Law Reform Commission's Third Programme include the laws on evidence, the criminal law on sexual offences and the law concerning vulnerable persons and the criminal justice system. I would consider the matter raised by the Deputy as suitable for consideration by the Commission.