My Department commissioned an independent consultant to undertake the statutory review of Part 4 of the Act but, due to a number of reasons, it was not possible for the review to be completed within the desired timeframe.
I acknowledge that the report is now significantly overdue and the Deputy is aware, from previous questions, of the circumstances that have delayed its completion.
Expressions of interest for a new Study lead to complete the Part 4 review of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act, 2017 were sought and following the closing date for receipt of applications, all options for concluding this work were considered. A very small number of expressions of interest were received, none of which met the necessary requirements to complete the review. Arising from those considerations and in view of the research already undertaken and the work done compiling and analysing the submissions received, all of which have been made available to my Department, I have decided that the most efficient way to complete the review is for the Data and Research Unit in my Department to draft the report using the material provided.
I am assured this approach will ensure that the review is completed in the autumn.
