2nd June 2010
The latest in IPRT's series of Oireachtas Seminars took place on June 2nd, dealing with the issue of spent convictions and the need for legislation in this regard. This has been a priority issue for IPRT for some time now, as Ireland continues to lag well behind the rest of Europe in enacting legislation. The matter of spent convictions is also inextricably linked to the recent work on reintegration undertaken by IPRT.
Speaking at the seminar were:
Lisa Cuthbert, who also spoke at IPRT's recent Reintegration Report launch, spoke about the challenges facing prisoners on their release from prison, including basic needs which must be met immediately, such as accommodation needs.
Tina Roche spoke about the difficulties faced by someone with a previous conviction. Tina is especially familiar with the myriad employment difficulties and Business in the Community run a Linkage Service which seeks to facilitate a linking between offenders and appropriate job placements.
Read Senator Ivana Bacik's statement on the seminar.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.