Departmental Policies

Thursday, 16 October 2025

Ceisteanna (280)

Roderic O'Gorman

Ceist:

280. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if he can provide an update on an ‘apparent lacuna in law’ relating to a case (details supplied); if he has engaged with the victim in this matter since coming to office; if his officials have prepared options in relation to changes in policy to address cases where victims are not afforded a right to information on the detention circumstances of convicted perpetrators, including their release; if so, if he will bring forward proposals in this area;; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56085/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration

I am aware of the distressing circumstances of the case raised by the Deputy.

While the Victims of Crime Act 2017 greatly expanded the right to information for victims and has been operating effectively in most cases, my Department is aware of complexities in cases concerning concurrent custodial sentences. In this instance I am aware that the perpetrator was not released at the end of sentence imposed, and will remain in the Central Mental Hospital as a result of the concurrent, but longer period of detention for the unrelated offence.

Given the unique and complex nature of the case referred to, my officials remain committed to examining in due course, how we can ensure that a person’s right to information about the release date would continue to operate where the actual date of release from detention is deferred due a separate detention in the CMH on an unrelated matter. This examination will consider the implications and will include considering whether amending legislation is required.