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The Minister for Justice and Equality, Mr Charlie Flanagan, today announced that the Government has approved the publication of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) (Amendment) Bill 2018, which will now be debated in Dáil Éireann.

The new Bill will extend and strengthen existing criminal law on sexual offences through the introduction of presumptive minimum sentences for repeat sexual offenders.

Announcing the Cabinet decision to approve the publication of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) (Amendment) Bill, Minister Flanagan said:

“Sexual offences are among the most serious crimes faced by our society, and the effect on victims is devastating. This Bill forms part of a Government commitment to strengthen the law in this area through the introduction of stronger sentencing provisions.”

Minister of State Kevin 'Boxer' Moran introduced proposals around stricter sentencing for repeat sex offenders in a Private Members Bill last year, which were taken forward by the Government. He welcomed today’s Cabinet decision and said:

“I am very pleased to see the publication of this Bill. I have very serious concerns around repeat sexual offenders and I am confident that this Bill will help to address these concerns by introducing stricter penalties for repeat offenders.”

Minister Flanagan continued:

“Sentencing is one aspect of our overall approach to sexual offenders. Treatment is prison is also very important and the Irish Prison Service Psychology Service in conjunction with the Probation Service provide for treatment of sex offenders in prison to help address their offending behaviour.”