Peadar Clohessy
Question:23 Mr. Clohessy asked the Minister for Justice her views on whether it is feasible to prohibit criminal convictions on the basis of uncorroborated confession evidence; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Confession Evidence.
I will be examining the feasibility and desirability of such a prohibition in line with the commitment in the Programme for a Partnership Government.
The essential issue is to determine the best and most effective safeguards against the possibility of improperly obtained confessions. It must be recognised that a number of extremely important safeguards have been introduced in recent years, particularly the regulations introduced in 1987 concerning the treatment of person in Garda custody. Also, consideration is being given, following the recommendation of the Martin Committee, to providing for the video recording of Garda questioning of suspects.
I will bear all these issues in mind in my examination of the matter.