Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
748. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of prosecutions secured under the Criminal Justice (Engagement of Children in Criminal Activity) Act 2024 for grooming and recruiting children into crime; the average sentence imposed to ensure these measures are a genuine deterrent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14145/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Criminal Justice (Engagement of Children in Criminal Activity) Act 2024 makes it an offence for an adult to either force or encourage children to engage in any criminal activity. Those found guilty of these offences may face imprisonment of up to 12 months on summary conviction and up to five years on indictment.
This legislation recognises the life-long impact and harm done to a child by drawing them into criminal activity, and is one of a set of holistic measures being progressed by my Department under the Youth Justice Strategy 2021-2027.
The collation of data on convictions is a function of the courts.
The management of the courts, operational matters and logistical functions are the responsibility of the judiciary and Courts Service, which are independent in exercising their functions under the Courts Service Act 1998 and the Constitution. As Minister, I have no role in these matters.
To be of assistance I have referred this question to the Courts Service for their direct reply to the Deputy on the number of convictions.
The Deputy may also wish to note that the Courts Service has a dedicated email address for the provision of information to members of the Houses of the Oireachtas: oireachtasenquiries@courts.ie
