Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 528: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will support a matter (details supplied). [21605/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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The decision on any sentence imposed in a criminal case is a matter for the courts who are, under the Constitution, independent in the exercise of their functions. If a defendant wishes to appeal against a conviction or the severity of the sentence imposed, there are procedures in place for an appeal to be made to the appropriate court. The Courts have made it clear that the Executive cannot operate a parallel or alternative system of justice by intervening in the sentences imposed by the courts. There are however powers for the Executive to manage the sentences imposed by the courts.