Approval secured to publish Jennie's Law

Government approval has been secured to publish Jennie’s Law, which will see those convicted of domestic violence included on a public register.

​The Domestic Violence Register Bill 2026 is to set up a Register of Judgements, which will ensure that convictions for serious domestic violence affected are made public as part of the conviction process.

​This new register will be on the website of the Courts Service, with victims required to provide consent before the perpetrator can be named.

​Offenders can apply three years after conviction to be removed from the register, but this will be at the discretion of the court.

​The judge can use discretion when it comes to publishing a judgment, which will contain details of the conviction and sentence.

​Minister for Justice, Home Affairs, and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan said: “If a person is convicted of a serious criminal offence before the courts, that is a public conviction and the public are entitled to know about that conviction.

​“Jennie's Law, named in honour of Jennifer Poole, who was murdered by her ex-partner in 2021, will be a new law that allows those convicted of domestic violence against a partner or former partner to be included on a public Register of Judgements.

​“This register will assist people who are in a relationship or considering a relationship with a person to ascertain whether they have a history of serious domestic violence convictions.

​“Of course, a register alone is not a solution – this measure is one part of our broader, comprehensive strategy to protect victims of domestic violence and reduce reoffending.

​“I want to commend the Poole family, and in particular Jason Poole, for the hard work and campaigning they have done to bring this legislation about.”

​Minister O’Callaghan continued: “Depending on the circumstances of any given domestic abuse case, there are also a number of fundamental measures that An Garda Síochána routinely assists with, and implements, such as supporting the victim to obtain a domestic abuse order, providing information in relation to domestic abuse support services, and ensuring a proactive arrest policy where there is clear evidence that an offence such as assault causing harm, or threats to kill, or stalking and harassment has occurred.

​“The Government is also committed to investing in rehabilitation and prevention programmes, with increased funding for victim support organisations and awareness-raising programmes to address the root causes of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.”