Vol. 487 No. 6
298 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans, if any, he has to ensure that families of murder victims are consulted about release dates from prison of perpetrators of serious crimes against them with particular reference to a case (details supplied). [5007/98]
I am aware of the case to which the Deputy refers but it is long standing practice not to comment on individual cases and I do not propose to make an exception to this practice in this instance.
I would, however, like to say that where the question of temporary release of an offender is concerned, particularly in cases involving violence, I assure the Deputy that due consideration is given to the circumstances of the victim in making any decision. In many such cases temporary release would not be considered. The sentences of prisoners convicted of violent offences are managed carefully particularly where the offence resulted in the loss of life. The overall approach adopted in these cases is kept under scrutiny and review in my Department in consultation with the prison authorities and the Garda Síochána.
