The next matter is a discussion of the EU Commission Green Paper on obtaining evidence in criminal matters from one member state to another and securing its admissibility — COM (2009) 624 final. The purpose of the Green Paper is to consult member states to obtain their views on a proposal to replace the existing regime on obtaining evidence in criminal matters, with a single instrument which would cover all types of evidence.
The Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform information note states that Ireland agrees with the view expressed in the Green Paper that the application of the existing instruments is sometimes burdensome and can cause confusion. However, we must be mindful that any process of rationalisation must take account of the fact that the rules of evidence and the provision of constitutional law vary from member state to member state.
The Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform has made available to members a copy of its formal response to the Green Paper questionnaire. Have members any views?
