Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 9 Jul 1992

Vol. 422 No. 5

Written Answers. - Legal Reforms.

Séamus Pattison

Question:

93 Mr. Pattison asked the Minister for Justice if, arising from his appearance on a television programme (details supplied) he will outline the legal reforms he intends to introduce and the timescale involved so that levels of crime, including that committed by juveniles, can be reduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Justice (Mr. Flynn)

I refer the Deputy to my reply to a parliamentary question asked by Deputy Jim Higgins on 11 June 1992 which lists legislation promised, introduced and enacted since 1989.

Among the legal reforms in my current programme are the Confiscation of Criminal Proceeds Bill which I hope to introduce in the next session, the Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, which among other things will deal with the problems caused by gangs and the Juvenile Justice Bill which will replace the Children Act, 1908. Work on the latter two Bills is at an advanced stage of preparation and they will be introduced as soon as possible.

Other legislative proposals I have in the criminal law area are a Criminal Law Bill, an Extradition Bill, a Criminal Law (Insanity) Bill, a Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Bill and a Criminal Procedure Bill. Work on these Bills is proceeding and I hope to introduce the legislation as soon as possible.

I have also set up an Advisory Committee on Fraud to review the legal, technical and operational aspects of that type of crime and the Law Reform Commission report on Dishonesty is expected shortly. I intend that any legislative changes found to be necessary in this area will be dealt with as a matter of priority and introduced with a minimum of delay.