Minister for Justice, Jim O’Callaghan, today launched a new protocol aimed at expediting trials involving minors in cases of rape and murder. The initiative, designed to reduce delays in the criminal justice system, specifically targets cases involving victims and defendants under 18 years of age.
During the launch, O’Callaghan commended the work of Ms Justice Caroline Biggs, who developed the protocol, and Mr Justice Paul McDermott, who convened the Criminal Justice Users’ Group where the idea originated. The collaboration between various criminal justice agencies, legal bodies, and the judiciary highlights a collective commitment to improving efficiency in trials involving minors.
One of the primary goals of the new protocol is to ensure that cases proceed to trial and reach a conclusion within 52 weeks. The protocol emphasizes the importance of minimizing delays, particularly for child victims, who may suffer long-term emotional and psychological harm due to prolonged legal proceedings. O’Callaghan acknowledged that delays in criminal trials can severely affect both the mental health of young victims and the future of young defendants.
“Delays in trials involving children can have a real detrimental impact on their lives,” O’Callaghan remarked. He further explained that the protocol seeks to prioritize the well-being of young offenders as well, with a focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment. He specifically referenced Oberstown, a facility designed to help rehabilitate young offenders, which can offer appropriate interventions for minors involved in serious crimes.
The new protocol is seen as part of a broader effort to address child sexual offenses, including providing adequate rehabilitation to young offenders, who may face complex challenges such as learning difficulties and mental health issues. The Minister emphasized that child offenders who receive proper intervention are less likely to reoffend.
In addition to expediting trials, O’Callaghan’s department is tackling wider societal issues linked to juvenile crime, such as the harmful effects of violent and abusive pornography on young people. The government is working on strategies to combat technology-facilitated sexual exploitation and to raise awareness about the dangers of online pornography.
The launch of this protocol is part of the government’s broader initiative to improve child welfare and justice outcomes, with a specific focus on reducing harm to vulnerable young people. O’Callaghan confirmed that the efforts will continue with a commitment to working alongside stakeholders to refine and improve the system.
This new initiative marks an important step toward creating a faster and more supportive process for child-related criminal cases, reflecting a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding minors in the criminal justice system.
Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan Picture from jimocallaghan.com
