Child rape and murder cases set for 52-week court protocol

This report is a localnews.ie summary based on public court reporting and records; sources are listed below.

A protocol launched on 21 February 2025 aims to conclude qualifying rape and murder cases involving children within about 52 weeks.

The Courts Service said the protocol covers child victims and defendants, setting procedures for investigations, support, prosecution decisions and court proceedings. Its proposed 52-week timeline runs from the initial statement or interview to the final verdict and sentence.

Sixteen signatories, including justice agencies, courts and legal bodies, agreed to work towards the timeline. The protocol recognises that delay can harm children and affect the fairness of proceedings.

For child defendants, Youth Diversion Project staff are to provide court accompaniment, explaining proceedings in accessible terms and offering support; the role is not advocacy.