Child grooming law welcomed by north Dublin TD, Paul McAuliffe

Gary Ibbotson 15 Jan 2021

Fagin’s Law, a new bill which will outlaw the grooming of children into crime, has been welcomed by a Fianna Fail TD.

Deputy McAuliffe said: “In 2018 I invited front bench spokespersons from Fianna Fáil to meet local community leaders.

“We heard how young people were groomed into crime by offers of a takeaway and runners.

“Minister of State Anne Rabbitte was one of those who attended the meeting and I would like to compliment and thank her for her follow through on the commitments that she made in opposition.

“This legislation will make a real difference in deterring children from a life of crime”

Those found guilty of the new offences face imprisonment of 12 months on summary conviction and up to five years on indictment.

A child which is groomed to commit a crime does not have to have to be successful in carrying out the offence for the law to apply.

“This legislation is a key part of our efforts to prevent gangs leading children into a life of crime,” says McAuliffe.

“In addition to the above announced today I am looking forward to the publication of the Montague Report which will outline the impact of open drug dealing in our community.

“I hope when the report is approved by all local elected reps, that we will be beating down the door of every government department to respond to it,” he said.

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