Conway welcomes initiation of Statute Law Revision Programme

Fine Gael Senator for Clare and the Party’s Seanad Spokesperson on Justice, Disability and Equality, Martin Conway, has today (Tuesday), welcomed the commencement by the Government Reform Unit of the Department of Public Expenditure of the Statute Law Revision Programme.

“This will be the largest repealing measure in the history of the State and I am delighted that the Statute Law Revision Programme is currently seeking comments from all interested parties on the revocation of secondary instruments created up to and including 1820.

“Some of the measures due for revocation include instruments from 1600s such as a proclamation declaring Charles II King, a declaration suppressing Tories and woodkerns and a proclamation requiring that the law against profane cursing and swearing be enforced.

“Other legislation to be repealed reflect major historical events such an order in 1815 that a prayer of thanksgiving be offered for the victory at the Battle of Waterloo and an order in 1806 imposing an embargo on trade with Prussia.

“Any person with views on the revocation or retention of any instruments dating from pre 1820 may contact the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform on or before 15 October 2014.”