Conway welcomes European Day for victims of crime

Fine Gael Clare Senator and Seanad Spokesperson on Justice, Martin Conway, has said that victims’ rights should be central to the operation of the criminal justice system in Ireland. Senator Conway made his comments in advance of the European Day for victims of crime, which takes place tomorrow (Saturday).

“I am delighted that the Government has committed to the implementation of the EU Directive which will establish minimum standards on the rights, supports and the protection of victims of crime. The victims’ rights Directive guarantees minimum rights for victims wherever they are in the EU, including proper support, information and protection,

“To help Member States adopt the Directive, the European Commission has today issued guidance to make sure that victims of crime can rely on their rights under EU law in practice. Adopting a victim-sensitive response to criminal offending, through engagement with those affected by a crime, is a progressive and worthwhile approach, of which I am particularly supportive.

“I am greatly encouraged by the fact that the Government has committed to further developing and expanding the restorative process which directly involves the victim in the criminal justice process and that preparatory work has already begun with a view to transposing the Directive on victims of crime.”