Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 March 2013
175. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if training or guidance is provided for judges in dealing with victims in the course of the criminal justice process, particularly with respect to the victims of sexual offences. [11880/13]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, the Committee for Judicial Studies has responsibility for the ongoing training of the Judiciary. My function as Minister under the Courts and Courts Officers Act 1995 is, with the consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, to provide funds for the training and education of judges.
I am informed that the Committee for Judicial Studies organises conferences, seminars and lectures on legal subjects for members of the judiciary. The object is to enhance knowledge and understanding of law and legal principles among judges with particular regard to new developments in the law, including legislation. Seminars on discrete topics may also be organised for each jurisdiction. On occasion, groups of judges meet to discuss current legal issues. The Committee also nominates judges to attend international conferences on legal topics where relevant. I understand that over recent years judges have participated in seminars on a range of subjects related to sexual crime including the needs of victims.
