DPP publishes booklets explaining function

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has published two leaflets explaining its functions and advising people of their obligations when acting as a witness in court.

The Role of the DPPbooklet sets out the role and function of the DPP's office in clear terms.

James Hamilton, Director of Public Prosecutions

It explains how crimes are investigated and, if necessary, brought to trial. It explains why the DPP doesn't reveal the exact reasons for his decisions on whether or not to bring prosecutions, noting that the policy has been supported by a number of recent Supreme and High Court decisions.

"In many cases, giving a reason in public could amount to condemning a person without a trial," it explains. "If reasons were given in some cases but not in others, people might jump to the wrong conclusions about cases where no reason was given."

The DPP James Hamilton denied earlier this year that his office's position of refusing to disclose its reasons for reaching decisions made it unaccountable.

Mr Hamilton said he not meet every victim of crime to explain why a prosecution in their case was not being pursued and they most effective way to deal with victims was through the Garda Síochána. Gardaí were always told why a prosecution was not being pursued, but the fact these reasons were not explained by the DPP's office to victims did not mean it was unaccountable.

"The simple fact is that . . . if I were to start making erratic arbitrary decisions, the Garda Síochána, the Commissioner, would very quickly have something to say," he said.

The Attending Court As A Witnesspamphlet explains the process of court appearances for witnesses. It explains the role of the DPP and Chief State solicitor in court cases, the types of crimes and the functions of the various courts. It explains who the various people are in court cases and what their duties are.

The leaflet details exactly what is expected of witnesses in court proceedings, what their rights are and who they can turn to for help, be it legal or financial.

In addition, the protections afforded to victims of crime, particularly of sexual or violent attacks, are outlined.

The booklets, which are revised editions, are available in English, Irish, Arabic, French, Mandarin, Latvian, Lithuanian, Polish, Russian and Spanish