1st June 2004
58. Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the Government policy in regard to persons serving prison sentences arising from the murder of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16293/04]
346. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if persons convicted of the murder of a person (details supplied) will serve their full sentence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16586/04]
Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): I propose to take Questions Nos. 58 and 346 together.
The stated position of the Government is that those convicted of the killing of the person in question will serve in full the sentences imposed on them by the courts and that there will be no possibility of their early release. In the event of a definitive ending of the Northern conflict, including an end to all forms of paramilitarism by the IRA, the Government may decide to re-consider the matter but there is little indication, at this point, that such a situation is likely to occur before the normal release date of these prisoners.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.