Government accused of trying to ‘steamroll’ changes

The Government was yesterday accused of attempting to ‘‘steamroll’’ significant changes to the criminal justice system without adequate time for debate.

Opposition parties insisted that with 20 sitting days remaining until the Dáil’s Easter recess, only 13 days may be available for debating and enacting the proposed legislation which includes more than 50 reforms.

The bill, being introduced by Justice Minister Michael McDowell, is due for publication within the next two weeks.