Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 550: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the policy and strategy documents published by him in relation to treatment of sex offenders; the policy and strategy documents he will publish during the coming year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29857/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I wish to advise the Deputy that I published a detailed Discussion Document on the management of convicted sex offenders last January. This document was prepared by a High Level Group in my Department, involving the Garda Síochána, the Irish Prison Service and the Probation Service, which examined the current arrangements in place for the management of sex offenders with a view to strengthening inter-agency cooperation and further enhancing public protection and safety. Their remit included a review of the procedures and legislation relating to the assessment, monitoring and supervision of convicted sex offenders.

The Discussion Document was published on my Department's website and interested organisations and individuals were invited to make submissions by end of April, 2009. I also facilitated informed debate at a Discussion Forum organised by my Department in March. My Department is now reviewing the submissions received and the feedback from the Discussion Forum with a view to finalising our strategy in this important area.

I should also say that on the 22nd April, 2009 I formally announced a new policy on the management of sex offenders in prison which commenced earlier this year. The new policy document is available on the website of the Irish Prison Service (www.irishprisons.ie). The policy is aimed at bringing about changes in offenders' lives that reduce risk of re-offending and enhance public protection.