Witness Protection Programme Bill 2007

Public bill · Private Member · Presented

The Witness Protection Programme Bill 2007 would put Ireland’s witness protection scheme on a clear legal footing, helping people who provide evidence about serious crime, as well as family members or associates facing related threats. The Garda Commissioner would run the programme in consultation with the Director of Public Prosecutions, who would decide admissions; protection could include relocation, accommodation, counselling, financial support and, where necessary, a new identity. Participants would have to give truthful evidence, obey the programme’s rules and avoid criminal activity, while their location and identity would generally be kept secret, with limited exceptions for serious crimes, national security or preventing an injustice. The measure matters because it aims to encourage witnesses to come forward while adding clearer safeguards, written reasons for decisions, penalties for leaks and annual reporting to the Oireachtas.

Last updated 12 April 2018