Victims’ group calls for changes in murder law

A group that provides support to families and friends of people who have died from murder or manslaughter has said the current law defining murder needs to be changed.

Advocates for victims of homicide Ireland (Advic) claims this is needed to adequately reflect the degrees of violence used, and the nature of injuries sustained during assaults.

Since the group was formed in 2004, many of the changes and improvements they have called for have taken place. The group now feels the current law needs to be updated regarding the classification of murder.

Advic has asked that murder by degree be introduced, to remove the distinction between deaths caused deliberately, and by accident.

The group is also calling for minimum sentences to be imposed for each degree.

Russell Deane, the son of Advic’s joint secretary, Joan, was killed on February 1, 2003.

Mark Johnson, of Church View Upper, Drogheda, stood trial for his murder but was acquitted by a jury who found him guilty of manslaughter.

In January 2006, Johnson was jailed for seven years.

Joan Deane, joint secretary of Advic, explains what the group is seeking.