Murderers should serve at least 12 years: parole chief

ANYONE convicted of murder should not be eligible for early release until they have served at least 12 years, according to the chairman of the parole board.

Gordon Holmes said a murderer should only be considered for release at this stage if they have worked to reform their ways while in prison.

At present a person serving life for murder can seek a sentence review from the parole board after seven-and-a-half years.