Victims of crime legislation
Deputy Mattie McGrath asks about implementation of criminal justice measures and support for victims after a serious border-area crime. The Minister says the victims’ Bill is complete and he will follow up on the commencement order.
In the programme for Government there is a clear commitment to reform and strengthen the legal system in an effort to support the victims of crime. Will the Taoiseach or the Minister for Justice and Equality clarify whether elements of the Criminal Justice Act 2017, formerly the Bail (Amendment) Bill, have not been implemented?
I believe that is the case. I raise this issue in the wake of a horrific crime committed on the border of counties Tipperary and Offaly. The perpetrators of these crimes are operating with impunity. The last people to receive support from this Government are the victims of crime. Why is this language used in the programme for Government and are there many other elements of the Bill that have not been enacted? What is the problem, especially regarding electronic tagging which should be used? Gardaí should know where these roving and marauding gangsters and criminals are.
Comment on this
All Stages of the Criminal Justice (Victims of Crime) Bill have been completed by the House and we are awaiting the imminent enactment of the legislation. On the matter of a commencement order for a recent Criminal Justice Act, I will communicate with the Deputy on that.