Mary Lou McDonald
Question:599. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Justice if her officials have initiated the drafting of domestic homicide legislation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34687/20]
View answerTuesday, 10 November 2020
Questions (599)
Written answers
The introduction of legislation to provide for Domestic Homicide Reviews is an important commitment in the Programme for Government. One of the elements that will feed into delivering on this commitment is the independent study commissioned by my Department into familicide and domestic homicide reviews. This independent specialist research is looking at international best practice in the conduct of domestic homicide reviews with a view to making recommendations in relation to their application in this jurisdiction.
Ms Maura Butler, who is a solicitor and has been a member of the Study’s Advisory Group since its establishment, agreed to take responsibility for leading completion of the study, following the sad and untimely death of Norah Gibbons, who was previously responsible. I met recently with Ms Butler to receive an update in relation to this work but I would stress the importance of recognising that the Advisory Group and their work is independent, and my Department is not involved in the work of the study nor is it a member of the Advisory Group.
I have asked Ms Butler to update me again on progress made later this month and I expect to receive the report from the Group before the end of the year. I look forward to examining the report in detail and I will consider any recommendations made as a priority.
In parallel to this study, An Garda Síochána is currently conducting a review of the investigation of certain homicides, which includes a number of domestic homicides, and is developing policies and procedures to inform the overall policing approach to domestic homicides.