Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 October 2015
389. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of serious offences, including unlawful killing, allegedly committed by persons while on bail in each of the past 12 years to date; the extent to which provision is being made to address this issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36627/15]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware the Central Statistics Office (CSO), as the national statistical agency, is responsible for the publication of recorded crime statistics.
In relation to the matters referred to, I have requested the CSO to provide the available statistics directly to the Deputy.
In July, the Government approved the drafting of a Bail Bill which will strengthen the operation of the bail system and make the law as effective as possible in protecting the public against crimes committed by persons on bail.
I am aware of the concerns that are arising in relation to the operation of our current bail laws and it is intended to have the new Bail Bill drafted on a priority basis, with a view to its publication in the current parliamentary session.
Accordingly, I look forward to introducing the Bail Bill in the Houses of the Oireachtas at an early stage.
