All Ireland approach to sex crime imperative - Mary Lou McDonald
Sinn Féin National Chairperson Mary Lou McDonald MEP has today said that moves
to track convicted sex offenders who travel between the north and south of
the country is an 'important first step' but must be followed by 'a clear
and holistic all Ireland approach to sex crime'.
Speaking today
Ms McDonald said:
"Sinn Féin has consistently called for an
all-Ireland approach to sex crime, and we have been pressing both
governments for the last number of years to introduce an effective and
integrated all-Ireland sex offender's register.
"A clear and
holistic all Ireland approach is required, given the fact that convicted
offenders can exploit the various loopholes. In particular, the conviction
of a paedophile in one jurisdiction on the island does not mean that they
will automatically be included on a register in another.
"Today's
announcement by both the British and Irish Government is a welcome and
important first step, but it must also serve as the catalyst for a full
harmonization of powers to protect children and young people. The next
logical step is a comprehensive all Ireland policy." ENDS