Ireland is to adopt a draft EU law allowing convicted people to serve out their suspended prison sentences in their home countries.
The proposal is designed to help those who avail of the scheme to successfully reintegrate into society.
Minister for Justice Dermot Ahern has received Cabinet permission to seek approval for the draft law in the Dail and Seanad.
“The Draft Council Framework Decision provides for convicted persons who have been given a suspended sentence or alternative sanction to return from the sentencing state to their home country state without any adverse effect on the nature of the sanction imposed.
“This will enhance the prospects of the sentenced person’s reintegration into society,” a ministerial spokesman said.
The draft law will also provide for cross-border supervision of the convicted person.
Mr Ahern has to move a motion in the Dail and Seanad under Article 29.4.6 of the Constitution to seek approval of the proposals.
“Legislation will be required to give effect to the Framework Decision if it is approved by the Houses of the Oireachtas and adopted by the EU Council,” the minister’s spokesman added.