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Fitzgerald publishes draft bill to implement EU Victims of Crime Directive

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Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald
Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald

Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald has published draft legislation to implement the EU Victims of Crime Directive in Irish law.

Ms Fitzgerald said the Criminal Justice (Victims of Crime) Bill 2016 would give victims of crime “full recognition in the criminal justice system”.

The bill introduces statutory rights for the victims of crime for the first time, including:

  • The right to receive comprehensive information on the criminal justice system and their role within it and the range of services and entitlements victims may access from their first contact with the Garda Síochána.

  • The right to receive a written acknowledgement of the making of the complaint by the victim.

  • The right to be provided with information concerning the progress of the investigation and any court proceedings.

  • The right to be informed of any decision not to institute a prosecution in relation to the offence committed against them and the right to request a review of that decision.

  • The right to receive information on the release, temporary release, or escape from custody of an offender who is serving a sentence for an offence committed against the victim.

  • The right to receive information in clear and concise language and to interpretation and translation where it is necessary to enable victims to understand and be understood in their participation in the criminal justice process.

    • Speaking after the publication of the bill, Ms Fitzgerald said: “Being a victim of crime is a difficult and distressing experience. What these measures aim to do is provide victims with information and support to help them through the criminal justice process.

    “This Bill is an important step forward in supporting victims of crime and protecting victims, insofar as possible, from further victimisation.”

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