Vol. 450 No. 6
34 Mr. P. Gallagher (Laoighis-Offaly) asked the Minister for Justice the proposals, if any, she has to change the law relating to alleged child sexual abuse cases, particularly regarding the taking of statements and the bringing of prosecutions in cases where parental consent is not forthcoming. [5292/95]
I am aware that difficulties can occur in the investigation of child sexual abuse cases where parental consent is not forthcoming to the taking of statements from children. In view of the sensitive and complex issues that arise in the context of the investigation of child sexual abuse I am not satisfied that the answer to these difficulties necessarily lies in legislative change. Furthermore, I should mention that any change in the law in this area could give rise to constitutional issues which would require very careful examination.
While I will certainly give top priority to any legislative measure that can be shown to be of real benefit to children who may be the subject of abuse, I have no proposals to introduce new legislation along the lines outlined by the Deputy, at present. I will, of course, keep the matter under review and will be glad to consider any specific proposals that the Deputy or others may make in this regard.
