Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 15 Oct 2003

Vol. 572 No. 4

Written Answers. - Witness Protection Programme.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

110 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the changes he intends to make to the witness protection programme following the strong criticism of it by the Court of Criminal Appeal in a case (details supplied) on 8 August 2003; if it is intended to put the scheme on a statutory basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23375/03]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

A review of the operation of the witness security programme is currently being undertaken by the Garda authorities following the judgment of the Court of Criminal Appeal in the case in question. The future operation of the programme will be considered following completion of this review.