Clare Daly (Dublin Fingal, Independent)
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291. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding the ratification by Ireland of the UN's Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture; and the timeframe for its ratification in view of the fact that Ireland signed OPCAT more than a decade ago. [4122/18]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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In May 2017, my Department completed the initial consultation phase with stakeholders on the ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture. Since then, my Department has participated in the round table discussion and launch of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission's research into how OPCAT can be implemented in Ireland. 

Having now considered this research, my Department is in the process of consulting with relevant agencies, Departments and other stakeholders seeking their views on the findings of this research. 

Once these consultations are completed, these observations will assist in developing further the Heads of the Inspection of Places of Detention Bill. It is anticipated that this Bill will be the legislative vehicle for establishing the National Preventive Mechanism network required to implement OPCAT. This Bill is listed in the Government's Legislative Programme and will be submitted for Government approval as soon as possible, subject to competing priorities.