Proposed Legislation.

Tuesday, 18 May 2004

Questions (315)

Fiona O'Malley

Question:

329 Ms F. O’Malley asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the draft legislation aimed at addressing the issue of female genital mutilation which was submitted to his Department in December 2003; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14414/04]

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Written answers

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Proposals for legislation in respect of the harmful traditional practice of female genital mutilation, which were submitted by Comhlámh to the Department of Health and Children, are being considered. The Department considers that such an act is an offence under the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997. It is a matter for the Garda Síochána to prosecute any person who performs female genital mutilation in Ireland.