ABSTRACT
This chapter sets out the policy context for people with intellectual disabilities interfacing with police as accused persons in Ireland. Against a backdrop of relevant international obligations, it outlines recent research-based developments in this field. It further sets out to discuss domestic safeguards that shape the treatment of individuals at this interface. It discusses five key safeguards in this context: access to a solicitor, right to medical assistance, access to specialist interviewers, the responsible adult safeguard, and accessible information. Recommendations are made to offer policymakers a blueprint for legislative and procedural reform that promises to align Irish criminal procedure with the human rights exigencies mandated under international conventions.
