Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 February 2004
21 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made to date in the review of the witness protection programme; if he is considering additional measures to support witnesses who may be giving evidence in court cases involving serious charges, but who may not wish to enter the protection programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6225/04]
View answerI am informed by the Garda authorities that the review of the procedures of the witness security programme is ongoing under the supervision of an assistant commissioner.
The review, which is both thorough and in-depth, includes consideration of: a recent judgment of the Court of Criminal Appeal; the measures to support witnesses in court cases who may not wish to enter the programme; and current best practice from an international perspective. When received, the recommendations of the review will be given full consideration.
