Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 April 2014
415. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the progress, following the signing by Ireland of the Optional Protocol of the Convention against Torture on 2 October 2007, on ratifying this important component of the UN's human rights treaties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16760/14]
View answerThe Government has approved drafting of the General Scheme of an Inspection of Places of Detention Bill. The General Scheme is currently being prepared.
In addition to other measures, the Bill will include provisions to enable ratification of the United Nations Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel Inhuman and Degrading Treatment or Punishment (OP-CAT). In this context, the Bill will, in particular, make provision for the designation of national bodies with responsibility for inspecting places of detention as so-called National Preventive Mechanisms (for the prevention of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment). A number of bodies in this jurisdiction, e.g. the Office of the Inspector of Prisons, already have responsibility for inspecting places where persons are deprived of their liberty.
It is expected that the General Scheme of the Places of Detention Bill will be completed later this year. Subject to Government approval of my legislative proposals, I intend to publish the General Scheme with a view to facilitating a public consultation process in advance of drafting and publication of the Bill.
