Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 November 2012
532. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if his attention has been drawn to the fact that studies on recidivism consistently show that offenders who go through restorative processes are less likely to reoffend that those who proceed through criminal courts. [52823/12]
View answerI am not clear as to which research studies or findings on recidivism and restorative justice practice the Deputy may have in mind. That said, I believe the concept of restorative justice is central to the pursuit of public protection, not just as a concept or principle, but as a model for practice by the various criminal justice agencies.
The Probation Service, in partnership with community based organisations, is engaged in the promotion, development and delivery of restorative justice initiatives. Extending the range of restorative justice schemes is a strategic priority for the Probation Service.
As I have said before, my focus is to encourage the use, to the greatest extent possible, of the menu of non-custodial options available to the courts. I believe the restorative justice concept has a place in that range of available options and it is my intention to build on the progress being made.
