Denis Foley
Ceist:23 Mr. Foley asked the Minister for Justice whether she has satisfied herself that the function of estreatment of bail laws is adequately discharged; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20219/96]
Written Answers. - Estreatment of Bail Laws.
I have some concerns about this matter and, for this reason, aside from the proposal to amend the Constitution in relation to bail, I am at present preparing legislation to tighten up on bail laws generally, including measures to improve arrangements in relation to estreatment through, for example, introducing a requirement that cash or the equivalent of cash is lodged as part of bail. The matter of estreating bail is a function of the prosecuting authorities and as Minister I have no role in the estreatment process. It is a matter for the courts to make a decision where a case for estreatment is made.