McDowell to press ahead with plans for electronic tagging

17/01/2005 - 08:50:14
Minister for Justice Michael McDowell is reportedly determined to press ahead with his plan to introduce electronic tagging for certain offenders as an alternative to custodial sentences.

Reports this morning said Mr McDowell would seek cabinet approval for the plan “shortly”, with legislation expected to be framed by Easter at the latest.

Officials from the Department of Justice have reportedly been in contact with their British counterparts in recent months to discuss the use of tagging in the UK.

This morning’s reports said tagging could first be introduced on a trial basis for people convicted of a first offence and for people found guilty of public order offences.