Michael Bell
Question:104 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will provide details on the rates of recidivism for convicted paedophiles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6778/98]
Written Answers. - Sex Offences.
There is no objective research, in this jurisdiction, on the rates of recidivism for sex offenders generally or for paedophiles in particular. The experience of the professional services in the prison system, however, is that, to date, very few convicted sex offenders who have completed prison sentences are subsequently committed to prison to serve further sentences for sex offences. It is important to bear in mind that I am referring to reconviction rates only. International research on this issue shows that recidivism rates for child molesters generally are lower than for offenders convicted for non-sex-related offences. Indeed, it would appear that recidivism rates for sex offenders are much lower than would be suggested by the general public perception of the risk such offenders pose upon release on completion of their sentences.