John Gormley
Question:45 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans, if any, he has to introduce legislation to limit the right to silence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3027/99]
Written Answers. - Criminal Law Reform.
Brian O'Shea
Question:63 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will implement in full the recent recommendations on changes in the criminal law arising from the SMI report on the Garda; the additional protections, if any, he will provide for people in custody if the Garda are given the additional powers recommended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3033/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 45 and 63 together.
I am at present considering recommendations contained in the report of the Expert Group which was appointed to consider changes in the criminal law recommended in the report of the Steering Group on the Efficiency and Effectiveness of the Garda Síochána (the Garda SMI Report) with a view to submitting proposals to Government as soon as possible. The recommendations in question relate in part to the issue of the right to silence. Any proposals will, of course, take into account the question of appropriate safeguards and will be announced in the usual way, in due course.