New guidelines have been published on victim impact statements. They were drawn up by the Gardaí, the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) and the Victims of Crime Office at the Department of Justice.

They outline who can make a statement and when and what exactly can be said. The guidelines have also been endorsed by the Judiciary and the Court Service.

The joint launch of the 'Making a Victim Impact Statement' guidelines will stress the important place that victims have within the criminal justice system and the continuing efforts to ensure their needs are met.

The guidelines say that the statement is read out in court after conviction but before sentencing and is designed to help the Judge understand the impact of a crime.

They add that thoughts or feelings about an offender should not be included and that one should not tell the judge what sentence they think the offender deserves.

The guidelines include information on:

• What is a Victim Impact Statement, who can make one and when?
• When do I make my Victim Impact Statement and what can I say?
• How do I make a Victim Impact Statement and can I get someone to help me
• What happens to my Victim Impact Statement and can I be asked about it

The Garda Commissioner said today he was aware of the need to provide information to victims who encounter the criminal justice system and these guidelines will go some way to supporting victims in what may be difficult circumstances.

Claire Loftus, Director of Public Prosecutions, highlighted the importance of clear, accessible language when presenting information for victims "the guidance is aimed at victims of crime and I believe they will benefit if the information presented to them is clear, concise and accurate".

Minister for Justice Alan Shatter also welcomed the guidance and added to the Commissioner’s comments "The work between the Guards, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and my Department on the current guidance document gives me hope that we can create a more humane system which, respecting fully the rights of the accused, can accommodate the legitimate needs of the victim and ensure the voice of the victim is heard".

The Garda Commissioner Martin Callinan says it is not allowed in all cases - only in cases of sexual offence or violence.