Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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Question 82: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made to date of the Spent Convictions Bill (2007); when he expects it to be brought to Committee Stage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23920/10]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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The Spent Convictions Bill 2007 completed Second Stage on 18 December 2008.

The Deputy will recall that the Bill was introduced as a Private Members Bill by my colleague, Mr Barry Andrews TD, when he was still a backbencher in October 2007. Subsequently, in early 2008, the Government agreed to progress it as a Government Bill.

Several issues were identified by Minister Andrews and by Opposition speakers during the Second Stage debate which are likely to require amendment. My Department has, in addition, undertaken a detailed review of the Bill. I am now awaiting advice on a range of amendments to be brought forward at Committee Stage. However, I am unable to say at this point when the Committee and remaining Stages will take place.