New bail laws propose more powers for Gardaí

Today we celebrate the passing-out of 100 new recruits from Garda College and today we are also publishing a new Bail bill to strengthen the law to protect the public against crimes committed by offenders out on bail.

Included in the proposed legislation is new power for the gardaí to arrest individuals without a warrant for breach of bail conditions with the goal of preventing a person from absconding or causing harm.

Currently, a judge may refuse bail if a suspect is not going to turn up for their trial, if they’re going to interfere with witnesses, if they’re charged with a serious crime or if there’s evidence they’re likely to commit another serious crime.

Over 10,500 serious offences were committed last year by people on bail, including six homicides, nine sexual offences and over 3,000 burglaries and robberies.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald have announced plans for a new Bail Bill.

The Bill will increase the power of gardaí in dealing with those who are in breach of their bail conditions, and will put new requirements on the courts in considering bail applications.

Speaking at a garda graduation ceremony in Templemore, Commissioner O’Sullivan denied that any tapping or monitoring of journalist’s phones was taking place. Now the law dictates that the District Court can not refused bail when such an appeal has been lodged.

Barrister Paul Anthony McDermott said other changes need to take place if new bail rules are to have any impact.

He added: “The biggest problem with bail in Ireland is that judges have to do bail hearings within two or three minutes because there are so many cases on their list”.

Giving the District Court power to refuse bail where there is an appeal against a sentence of imprisonment imposed by that court.