As you are aware, in July of last year, my Department officials contracted an independent expert to undertake the review of Part 4 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act.
As part of the review, an online public consultation was opened and contributions were received from a broad range of organisations with different perspectives. Further consultation with stakeholders is planned and details on how this engagement will take place will be outlined in due course. The review will consider all aspects outlined in the Terms of Reference.
While the review is independent of the Department, it is understood that the independent expert commissioned to carry it out has a programme of work mapped out for the remainder of the year and expects to be in a position to present the outcome of the review early next year.