Departmental Bodies

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 February 2012

Tuesday, 14 February 2012

Questions (444, 445)

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

489 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the date on which he will establish the group to conduct a strategic review of penal policy incorporating an examination and analysis of all aspects of penal policy including prevention, sentencing policies, alternatives to custody, accommodation and regimes, support for reintegration and rehabilitation, the issue of female prisoners and 16 and 17 year olds within the system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7757/12]

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

490 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the way in which his group conducting a strategic review of penal policy will work with the sub-committee on penal reform. [7758/12]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Alan Shatter)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 489 and 490 together.

I will announce details on membership and the terms of reference for this Group shortly.

Officials from my Department, the Irish Prison Service, and the Probation Service recently met with the Sub-Committee on Penal Reform to brief them on particular developments in the area of penal policy. I am aware of the Sub-Committee's work in that regard and will continue to bear it in mind.