RTÉ Radio 1: Judges may be able to recommend minimum sentences under new Government plans
7th August 2024
On 7 August 2024, Irish Penal Reform Trust Executive Director featured on RTÉ Radio 1 on the Today with the Claire Byrne Show discussing the news that judges may be able to recommend minimum sentences under new Government plans.
Saoirse questioned if the legislation is necessary as we have a robust system already. On the bill she welcomed that if the legislation passes, the decisions will be non-binding so the Parole Board can retain the authority to make the final decisions for life sentences. She also called for sentencing guidelines to be published to assist judges.
Saoirse has noted that Ireland has the highest rate of people serving life sentences in Europe - nearly 10% compared to 3.2% elsewhere. Currently, there are 350 people serving life sentences serving a life sentence of 25 years or more.
Related items:
- News at One coverage of Prison inspection reports - RTE Radio One
- Prisoner numbers on course to reach 'unimaginable' level - The Irish Examiner
- Electronic tags for released prisoners to be trialled - Live 95 (Limerick)
- No electronic tagging of prisoners yet despite 2007 law paving the way - Irish Independent
- No beds for over 100 people in Cork Prison - The Echo
