Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 April 2012
1029 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the organisational and legal progress that has been made to give effect to his decision to establish a statutory parole board; when he expects the new body to operate; the relationship he expects this new body to have with the existing interim parole board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19157/12]
View answerI announced my intention last year to enact legislation to place the interim parole board on a statutory footing which I believe will help to strengthen the board and improve its functions. My Department is currently considering exactly what role a statutory parole board should play, what powers it should have, and the implications of same with a view to preparing the Heads of a Bill. I will make a further announcement in due course.
1030 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of vacancies that will arise on the interim parole board this year; if he is favourably disposed to filling at least one of the arising vacancies by appointing one or more persons that are from a victims of crime organisation background; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19158/12]
View answerI can advise the Deputy that four vacancies will arise from 1st July. I am presently considering the making of appointments and will continue to bear the Deputy's suggestion of victim representation in mind.
