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Parole Board Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 November 2013

Tuesday, 5 November 2013

Questions (80)

John McGuinness

Question:

80. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the time frame he has put in place to place the parole board on a legislative footing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46518/13]

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Written answers

I announced my intention in 2011 to enact legislation to place the Parole Board on a footing which I believe will help to strengthen the Board and improve its functions. Work is under way and progress is being made. Decisions have yet to be finalised on exactly what role a statutory Parole Board should play, what powers it should have, and how it should fit into the overall criminal justice system.

I addressed the inaugural conference of the Parole Board in that regard on Friday 25 October, 2013. The discussions, which focussed on the parole process and experience from other jurisdictions, will also help inform that process.

I have also appointed a group to carry out a strategic review of penal policy. This is a wide-ranging and important review with implications for the future direction and implementation of penal policy in Ireland. I expect the group to report early in the new year. When I have considered their recommendations, I will bring proposals forward to Government for a statutory Parole Board.

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