New legislation ensures stronger, safer communities across County Cork through tougher sentences and an extension to the mandatory retirement age for gardaí.
Councillor John Paul O’Shea welcomed the passage of the Courts, Civil Law, Criminal Law and Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2024 by both Houses of the Oireachtas today.
The bill, introduced by Minister for Justice Helen McEntee, mandates tougher sentences for assault, conspiracy to murder, and knife crime, as well as voluntary extensions to mandatory retirement for gardaí, among other significant provisions.
Cllr O’Shea said: “This bill ensures people in County Cork can feel secure, knowing that our society will not tolerate violence, intimidation, or fear.
“The maximum sentence for assault causing harm has been increased, and the penalty for conspiracy to murder has been raised to life imprisonment. Additionally, we have increased the maximum sentence for assaulting a peace officer.
“Knife crime is a grave offence, and with the increased sentencing we are implementing, we ensure that the repercussions are equally severe.
“The bill will now heighten the maximum penalties upon conviction for the following knife-related offences: possession of an article in a public place intended to cause injury, incapacitate, or intimidate a person; trespass with a knife, weapon of offence, or any sharp-pointed article; production of an article capable of inflicting serious injury; and the manufacture, sale, or hire of offensive weapons.
“This is all about keeping our towns and cities safe in County Cork and across the country.
“Our uniformed public servants play a crucial role in our communities, especially in ensuring that offenders face justice. This bill allows for those wishing to continue their service to do so up to the age of 62 instead of having to retire at 60, thereby enhancing our public safety efforts.”
“This legislation marks a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to create a safer, more secure Ireland. It demonstrates Fine Gael commitment to protecting citizens and supporting our dedicated public servants in their vital roles.” Cllr O’Shea concluded.
