Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 June 2013
37. Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on the report on penal reform from the Joint Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality from March 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28242/13]
View answerIn line with the recommendations of the Thornton Hall Project Review Group, I announced an all encompassing strategic review of penal policy last September.
A Working Group was established to carry out this review and to make recommendations on how a principled and sustainable penal system might be further enhanced taking into account resource implications, constitutional imperatives and international obligations. The Group has also been asked to consider the Joint Committee's recommendations on penal reform. I expect the Group to report later this year and it is the intention to publish their report.
