Murderers challenge life terms

TWO convicted murderers are challenging the mandatory life sentence claiming it excludes a discretionary role for judges in recommending a minimum jail sentence.

Peter Whelan and Paul Lynch have brought an appeal to the Supreme Court over Section 2 of the Criminal Justice Act 1990, which provides mandatory life sentences for murder or treason.

They claim it is unconstitutional and offends their rights under the European Convention on Human Rights (EHCR). They say the role of the Parole Board and the Minister for Justice in reviewing their sentences is incompatible with the ECHR.