Sex offenders register
Deputy Naughten said the sex offenders register was too weak and offenders were often detected only after another breach. The Tánaiste replied that the Bill would be taken next term and hoped to work with him to get it enacted in 2021.
Every week at least one convicted sex offender comes to the attention of the Garda because they are not living at the address they have given to the authorities. In most instances, this is the only condition with which they have to comply due to our so-called sex offenders register following their release from prison. The fact is that the sex offenders register is little more than a fig leaf. It is only when a convicted offender comes to the attention of the Garda for some other reason, they are charged with a breach of the only condition that is put on them post their release.
Will 2021 be the year when at long last the 12 years of political promises will turn into action and the Sex Offenders (Amendment) Bill will be enacted to provide real protection to children, women and vulnerable adults?
