28th May 2009
In recent years, mandatory and presumptive sentencing have been proposed as a means of addressing specific categories of offending.
In this Position Paper we outline the current legal framework for mandatory and presumptive sentencing in Ireland, as well as describing the advantages and disadvantages of these sentences as evidenced here and in other jurisdictions.
The Paper also outlines alternatives to mandatory or presumptive sentencing which can potentially address the concerns expressed by both the advocates for and against such policy.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.