Vol. 373 No. 10
asked the Minister for Justice if he has considered the proposals for reform of the rape law made by the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre; if it is intended to implement all or any of the reforms suggested; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
26.
asked the Minister for Justice the steps he intends taking, as a matter or urgency, to introduce amending legislation in the law of rape in the areas where (a) no cross-examination of victims in cases where forensic evidence of an assault exists; (b) victims are afforded the right of independent representation; and (c) the definition of what constitutes a rape is widened; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 19 and 26 together.
Following a decision of the previous Administration, the reconstituted Law Reform Commission has undertaken an examination of the law on sexual offences, including the law on rape. I would wish to have the benefit of the Commission's views and recommendations before considering what, if any, changes there should be in the law on rape.
