Proposed Legislation.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 September 2007

Wednesday, 26 September 2007

Ceisteanna (817)

Kathleen Lynch

Ceist:

914 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has proposals to introduce legislation to outlaw the practice of female genital mutilation; if he is confident that current legislation is strong enough to deal with such incidences here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20191/07]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

Female genital mutilation constitutes an assault that causes serious harm to girls and women on whom it is carried out. Such an act is in fact an offence under the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act, 1997. Any such cases brought to the attention of An Garda Síochána would, of course, be rigorously investigated.