Register gives false sense of security

The sex offenders’ register has been criticised by people working in the field as merely a cosmetic exercise because it has no practical function.

A prison governor must notify the Garda Síochána 10 days before a sex offender is released. The offender is then required to notify the gardaí of his address.

This obligation is fulfilled, however, once he notifies the gardaí anywhere. For instance, an offender living in Co Wexford can notify the gardaí in Co Donegal. If he subsequently moves, the offender is again supposed to inform the gardaí.