I wish to ask the Tánaiste about the expected publication date for two Bills. The first is the criminal justice (victims rights) Bill, to strengthen the rights of victims of crime and their families and to give effect to a proposed EU directive. The second Bill is No. 123, the prisons Bill, the purpose of which is to consolidate and restate prison law in modern terms. I note today that new measures have been introduced to escort high-risk prisoners. In recent times serious attacks have been made on prison officers. In light of that we do need new prison laws and supports.

I understand legislation on victims' rights will be introduced later this year. On the second matter, I do not have a date for the publication of the prisons Bill or any further information on the Bill.