New crime legislation will tackle repeat offenders in Mayo

THE passage of the Criminal Justice Bill through the Oireachtas is a major boost to crime fighting in Mayo.

That’s according to Senator John O’Mahony

He explained: “This Bill gives the Courts more powers in imposing bail conditions, including prohibiting an accused from contacting victims, prohibiting him or her from driving when charged with a serious road traffic offence, and the imposition of a night-time curfew.

“Courts will also be required to take additional factors into account when considering whether to refuse bail to serious offenders including the nature and frequency of previous offending.

“The Bill allows for people on bail to be monitored electronically to demonstrate compliance with bail conditions when requested by the prosecutor.

“This Bill also helps the victims of crime allowing for victim evidence at bail proceedings and the Bill also makes it a requirement that the court give reasons for bail decisions.

“I am delighted to see these common sense measures being introduced; they will enhance the powers of our Justice System and should act as a deterrent to repeat offenders, thereby protecting Mayo communities.”