O’Dea under fire over pleas for prisoner leniency

The victims' support group Advic has severely criticised Defence Minister Willie O'Dea for facilitating 29 leniency requests on behalf of prisoners between 2002 and 2006.

The organisation is quoted this morning describing the Limerick politician's behaviour as appalling.

The prisoners Mr O'Dea sought special treatment for reportedly included a rapist and a number of drug dealers.

The minister says he never argued a case and was merely passing on requests.

Advic, however, says his behaviour was unbelievable and it is appalling that the due process of the justice system was not being allowed to take its course.

The organisation is calling for the practice of politicians making representations on behalf of prisoners to be outlawed.