Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 February 2025
209. Deputy Conor Sheehan asked the Minister for Justice when he will review sentencing guidelines, particularly with regard to the issue of concurrent and suspended sentences for violent offences; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4992/25]
View answerIt is important to emphasise that the conduct of any court case is a matter entirely for the presiding judge. The courts are, subject only to the Constitution and the law, independent in the exercise of their judicial functions, including sentencing.
The Judicial Council Act 2019 established an independent Judicial Council, and, within that body, a Sentencing Guidelines and Information Committee, was established in 2020. Its functions include the preparation of draft sentencing guidelines and the monitoring of the operation of those guidelines, together with collating information on sentences imposed by the courts and the dissemination of that information to judges and others. The Judicial Council is independent in the exercise of its functions and, as Minister for Justice, I have no role in relation to the operation of the Judicial Council or its Committees.
In line with the Programme for Government, I intend to review the sentencing guidelines legislation.
In addition, the proposed Life Sentences Bill will allow judges to recommend a minimum period to be served in custody before a person is released on parole, reflecting the circumstances of the case. The Government approved the drafting this Bill last July and work is underway to progress it.
