Written answers

Thursday, 14 May 2009

Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform

Sexual Offences

5:00 am

Photo of Charles FlanaganCharles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 89: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will confirm the entry on the sex offenders register of the name of a convicted person (details supplied); the date the entry in the register was first made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19412/09]

Photo of Dermot AhernDermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Sex Offenders Act, 2001 contains a comprehensive series of provisions aimed at protecting children and other persons against sexual abuse and attack. The Act makes persons convicted of a range of sexual offences subject to notification requirements under Part 2 of the Act. The provisions of the Act also extend to any sex offenders who enter the State.

An Garda Síochána has a system in place for the monitoring of persons subject to these requirements. The Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Investigation Unit monitors and manages the notification provisions. The Unit maintains all information relating to persons who have obligations under the Act. There is a nominated Garda Inspector in each Garda Division who has responsibility for the monitoring of persons subject to the requirements of the Act in their Division. As soon as the Domestic Violence and Assault Investigation Unit is advised by a relevant authority, such as the Irish Prison Service, the Courts Service or a foreign law enforcement agency, of the impending release or movement of sex offenders into their area this information is immediately passed to the nominated Inspectors, who are advised of information relevant to their Division. Should they arise, child protection issues are raised with the health authorities, as set out in the Children First guidelines.

Section 10 of the Sex Offenders Act, 2001 requires offenders to notify the Garda Síochána of their name and home address within seven days of becoming subject to the notification requirement. Notification is made at any Garda Divisional or District headquarters and may be done so in person or by post. Thereafter offenders must, within seven days of the event, notify the Gardaí of any subsequent changes to their name or address. Offenders who leave the State for an intended continuous period of seven days or more must inform the Gardaí in advance of their leaving.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that they do not provide information on individual cases, nor is information provided that might lead to the identification of individuals.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.