Irish criminal justice system sets out strategy for ‘joined-up’ working

The first-ever criminal justice sectoral strategy builds on the work of the criminal justice strategic committee, which was established on an ad hoc basis in 2015.

It brings together the Department of Justice, An Garda Síochána, the Irish Prison Service, the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Courts Service, the Probation Service, the Legal Aid Board and Forensic Science Ireland.

Writing in the foreword to the strategy, the leaders of the criminal justice bodies said: “In preparing the strategy we consulted with all elements of the system, with our colleagues across government, with system users and, most importantly, with victims of crime and the general public we all serve.

“What we discovered in talking to people is not surprising – the criminal justice system in Ireland can be seen as daunting, inaccessible and is often difficult to understand for those using it. The ‘system’ does not communicate with a unified voice to victims, witnesses, suspects/people accused or convicted of a crime and does not always seem to be cohesive or efficient.

“Our shared commitment, as set out in this strategy, is to work together to remedy these issues.”

They added: “While it is inevitable that the system is complicated, and it is essential that some agencies operate independently from others, we will work towards a more cohesive criminal justice system.

“We want a victim-centred system with an innovative and open culture, where people go the extra mile to solve problems creatively and collaboratively, and where policy development is based on consultation, evidence and data.

“In doing so, we believe we can deliver a joined-up criminal justice system that protects human rights, builds public confidence and trust, and works together to improve efficiency and the experience of those who rely on us to deliver a safe, fair and inclusive Ireland.”