Jennie’s Law to be brought before Cabinet tomorrow

Jennie's Law will be named after Jennifer Poole, who was murdered by her ex-partner in 2021.

The bill will allow those convicted of domestic violence to be named on a register that will be available for the public to view.

Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan has been drafting the legislation since last year.

She was rushed to Connolly Hospital but died from haemorrhage and shock due to multiple stab wounds. Murphy pleaded guilty to her murder and is now serving a life sentence in prison.

Jim O’Callaghan, Minister for Justice, will bring the bill to cabinet tomorrow to publish the text of Jennie’s Law and commence the bill’s passage through the Oireachtas.

“If a person is convicted of a serious criminal offence before the courts, that is a public conviction and the public are entitled to know about that conviction,” the Justice Minister said.

"Jennie’s Law, named in honour of Jennifer Poole, who was murdered by her former partner Gavin Murphy in 2021, will be a new law that allows those convicted of domestic violence against a partner or former partner, to be included on a public Register of Judgements," he continued.

“This public register will help those who are in a relationship or considering a relationship with a person to ascertain whether they have a history of serious domestic violence convictions"

The minister added that he wanted to commend Jennifer's brother, Jason Poole, "who has tirelessly campaigned for such a register.”

Jason said that although it’s “too late” for his sister, this law will be her legacy.

He previously told Joe.ie that he believes this legislation could have saved Jennie’s life. He believes any person should have the right to know if their partner has a violent past.

Once the law has passed, the public register will be available on the website of the Courts Service. Domestic abuse survivors will be required to provide consent before the convicted person can be officially named on the register.