Vol. 497 No. 4
146 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of sex offenders released from prison over the past 12 months; the follow up these prisoners receive after their release; the progress, if any, in relation to the proposed sex offenders register; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25202/98]
There were 42 sex offenders released in 1997 and 81 offenders were released to date in 1998. At present offenders who have completed their sentences cannot be compelled to accept supervision from the probation and welfare service. There is, however, a small number of offenders, who have completed the Arbour Hill programme now under mandatory supervision by the probation and welfare service on foot of court orders.
Issues related to the introduction of a dedicated register of sex offenders are among the matters addressed in the discussion paper on the law on sexual offences which I published last May. The issue of post-release supervision and support of sex offenders is also dealt with. An analysis of the submissions received on the entirety of the discussion paper is currently being undertaken in my Department. Once that analysis has been completed, consideration will be given to the question of the preparation of proposals for legislative change.
