Children who commit murder but turn 18 before sentencing will no longer face a life sentence 

It will address an issue recently identified by the High Court in which it ruled that a child who commits murder but turns 18 before sentencing should not be subject to the mandatory life sentence for murder.

"The High Court held that it is unconstitutional for a child who committed an offence of murder and sentenced whilst still a child might receive a determinate sentence with a fixed length, whereas a child who had aged out must receive a life sentence for the very same offence," Ms McEntee said.

It is absolutely vital that there is clarity in our laws around what sentences can be imposed for those found guilty of serious crimes.

Elsewhere at Cabinet, chief whip Hildegarde Naughton brought the Government's legislative plan which prioritises 61 bills for publication and drafting in the upcoming 13-week Autumn Dáil session. 

Ms Naughton said the Government will prioritise the publication of a bill that will remove the ability of employers to force workers to retire once they reach state pension age.

It will also publish legislation to address issues related to parentage and citizenship arising from the use of fertility clinics abroad by Irish residents and citizens. 

There will also be a ban on the sale of disposable vapes and a law to give members of the Oireachtas an entitlement to maternity leave should they become pregnant during their time in the Dáil or Seanad.