Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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Question 576: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the plans, if any, he has to make 25% remission for convicted sex offenders dependent on participation in prison treatment programmes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36219/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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The granting of sentence remission is a feature of many prison systems worldwide and has been a feature of the Irish criminal justice system since the foundation of the State. Indeed our Courts are aware of the statutory entitlement to remission when passing sentence. I am finalising details regarding membership and terms of reference for the establishment of an all encompassing strategic review of penal policy which would incorporate an examination and analysis of all aspects of penal policy including prevention, sentencing policies, alternatives to custody, accommodation and regimes, support for reintegration and rehabilitation and the issue of female prisoners. The general issue of remission, including its use in the context of sexual offenders, will fall within the remit of that review and I will await their recommendations before making any decision on this matter.