The Irish criminal justice system has served the people well since the foundation of the State. In particular, our criminal justice system has acted down the years as a vital bulwark, protecting our citizens from the very real threat posed to the State from subversion and terrorism.
Political accountability for the criminal justice system is vested in the Minister for Justice. As the current holder of this post I can assure the Deputy that I will continue to implement the Government's ambitious modernising and reforming programme right across the system, from policing to management of prisoners.
Other office holders, judicial and non-judicial, share in responsibility to ensure the efficient management and operation of the criminal justice system and all are bound under the Constitution to do their utmost to ensure it serves the people to the highest possible standards.