Doherty criticises “ridiculous” bail system

Mike Finnerty 10 Mar 2025
Fine Gael MEP Regina Doherty

Fine Gael MEP Regina Doherty has called for a reform and what she calls “proper resourcing” of Ireland’s bail system.

Statistics released last week found that individuals on bail were linked to over 40,000 crimes in 2024.

Doherty said Ireland’s bail policy is “completely ridiculous,” in a seeming criticism of her own party’s stance on crime.

Fine Gael held the Minister for Justice brief from March 2011 until January 2025, with Fianna Fáil’s Jim O’Callaghan taking up the portfolio as part of the new government.

“When thousands of crimes are being committed by people who should be under strict bail conditions, it’s clear the system is not fit for purpose,” the MEP said.

“We need to stop this cycle and ensure that those who break the law face the full force of justice.”

She added, “those who repeatedly violate their bail conditions face the consequences of their actions.”

“Everyone involved in our criminal justice system goes above and beyond to protect the public, but they can often be constrained by the resources available to them. Right now, too many offenders see bail as a revolving door—one that allows them to commit crime after crime with impunity. That has to end.”

“I welcome the Taoiseach’s commitment to reform. The Government must ensure that those who abuse bail conditions are dealt with swiftly and decisively. There can be no more delays.”

Doherty called on the government to take immediate steps to fix the system, saying that repeat offenders “must face real consequences.”

“This isn’t just about reform—it’s about public safety. A justice system that allows the same criminals to offend over and over again is failing victims, communities, and law-abiding citizens. The time for talk is over; we need real, urgent action.”

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