Tackling domestic, sexual and gender-based violence is a central priority for me as Minister for Justice.
The Programme for Government commits to working with An Garda Síochána to ensure a person in an intimate relationship can be informed of a serious risk to them where a new partner has a history of domestic violence.
I have requested officials to examine proposals to establish a register or mechanism that would facilitate disclosure of information in respect of an offender’s prior convictions where there is a risk of harm.
This would apply to individuals convicted on indictment of an offence against an intimate partner, or former intimate partner, subject to court discretion and victim consent.
My Department is consulting with relevant stakeholders as careful consideration is required regarding the legal and policy implications of how the proposals would work in practice.