Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2023
817. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Justice if, further to recommendations on better supporting victims outlined within the O'Malley Report, she plans to introduce legislation which would allow victims of rape or sexual abuse to give evidence to a court via video link; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47771/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, under the Constitution and the law, the Courts are independent in their functions, and the conduct of any court case is a matter for the presiding judge.
I can advise the Deputy that Section 13 of the Criminal Evidence Act 1992 provides that victims of rape or sexual abuse may give evidence through video link with the leave of the court.
There are no legal impediments to a witness giving evidence remotely in suitable cases.
I can assure you that I am acutely aware that the trial and sentencing stage can be a deeply traumatic experience, especially for victims of sexual violence.
Work is continuing to reform the system to ensure that a full range of supports are available for vulnerable victims from the moment they report an offence, through the investigation, trial and beyond.
The Courts Service Modernisation programme has already brought the number of technology enabled courtrooms from up from 55 to 136 over the past few years. The facilities available in these courts can support victims of rape or sexual abuse to give evidence to court via video link, as and when the judge and court deem it appropriate.
There are also 33 vulnerable witness rooms available across 45 Court buildings and as part of the Courts Service Modernisation Programme the Courts Service continues to seek opportunities to reform their facilities to meet the needs of court users.
