Vol. 470 No. 1
68 Mr. O'Donoghue asked the Minister for Justice the plans, if any, she has to advise the victims of crime of the temporary release of those convicted of offences against them; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18406/96]
102 Miss Coughlan asked the Minister for Justice the plans, if any, she has to publish the name of every prisoner released on temporary release, together with details of their convictions and the reason for their release. [18430/96]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 68 and 102 together.
I have no plans at present to publish the names, offences and other details in respect of every person granted temporary release. Such a scheme would not serve any worthwhile purpose and in any event it would be impossible to administer effectively.
Concern for the victims of crime is reflected in the various measures implemented in the courts in recent years. These include the video link system and the provision of facilities for the use of victims at courthouses. Regarding the question of temporary release, I assure the Deputies that in making individual decisions, particularly in cases involving violence or other serious offences, due consideration is given to the situation of the victims.
In many such cases there would, in any event, be no question of any form of early release. The vast majority of prisoners have determinate sentences, even offenders who are in custody for very violent offences and, of course, I have no option but to release them once they have completed their sentence. In cases where the release of a serious offender on expiry of sentence or for any other reason is assessed as likely to pose potential difficulties for a victim, efforts are made to contact the victim through the Garda. It is not possible, however, to adhere to this procedure in the case of every temporary release given the sheer volume of numbers involved. The sentences of serious risk offenders are very carefully managed and the approach to these cases is kept under scrutiny and review in my Department in consultation with prison Governors and the Garda.
