IRELAND is to introduce a new law which will see teachers, parents and neighbours be given the names and addresses of sex offenders in the nearby area.
Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan said that the new legislation will "enhance the way sex offenders are monitored" and will hopefully reduce the chances of reoffending.
"I understand the concern some communities have in relation to offenders and particularly sex offenders," he told the Irish Mirror.
"Recognising this, my Department is working on new legislation to enhance the way convicted sex offenders are assessed, managed, and supervised or monitored.
"In the interim, it is important to make the point current law does allow the courts to impose conditions on sex offenders after release from prison."
The new law will see a "minimum number of people necessary," to avoid risk of reoffending, being given the sex offender's details, and they will only be given out if the offender remains a clear and present danger.
There are around 50 individuals currently living in Ireland who are at 'high' or 'very high' risk of reoffending, according to the Department of Justice.
146 people in total were being monitored, following their release from prison after being jailed for serious sexual crimes, under the Sex Offender Risk Assessment and Management Scheme at the beginning 2019.
Some of these committed crimes including rape and defilement of a child.
The new legislation is now under comprehensive review, and is now with office of Parliamentary Counsel for drafting.
"The Department is working with that office to progress this important work," added Mr Flanagan.
