McDowell defends comments of DPP on sentencing
17/11/2006 - 15:55:48The Minister for Justice said today he understands why the Director of Public Prosecutions made the comments he did earlier this week.
The DPP called on judges to explain the reasons behind their sentencing decisions, saying that people often find it difficult to understand the differing sentences for similar crimes.
Michael McDowell said today: “I understand where the DPP is coming from in relation to that issue.
He added: “There is a judicial studies board which has been established and it is my intention to assist and encourage the judiciary to develop their present system of casebooks and precedents in relation to sentencing so that through seminars and further judicial education that norms do become apparent.”
