The offences include measures targeting violent and organised crime.
A range of new criminal offences, as well as tougher sentences for existing offences, come into effect from today.
The offences include measures targeting violent and organised crime, violence against Gardaí and other emergency service workers, and measures to support victims and punish perpetrators of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.
As of today, the maximum sentence for conspiracy to murder increases from the current penalty of ten years to life imprisonment.
The maximum sentence for assaulting or threatening to assault a Garda or other on duty emergency workers has increased from 7 to 12 years.
Justice Minister Helen McEntee says ensuring the safety of Gardaí and all other frontline workers has been one of her main priorities.
A new standalone offence of stalking, with a maximum sentence of up to ten years, has also been created and is now in effect.
The Justice Minister also says the changes mark a milestone in the Government's efforts to build stronger, safer communities.
Anne Clarke of the Offaly Domestic Violence Support Service says the low threshold for stalking means it needs to only happen once:
Westmeath County Council Toasts Road Safety Competition Winners
Midlands Animal Welfare Charities In Line For €175k
No White Christmas For The Midlands This Year
ESB Requires Massive Step Change To Meet Connection Obligations
Concerns Raised Over National Lottery’s Handling Of Gambling Risks
Over €73k Awarded To Midlands Schools For Sustainability Projects
Appeal Lodged Over Slieve Blooms Quarry Expansion
Westmeath Community Group Spreads Christmas Cheer To Families In Need
Offaly Bike Shop Owner Calls For Tougher Penalties For Phone Use While Driving
Department Of Education Faces Almost 2,000 Teacher Vacancies
Midlands MEP Slams EU Commission President Over Mercosur Trade Deal Push
Revenue Seize Over €455k In Contraband In The Midlands
Westmeath Global Tech Company Set To Move Next Year
Offaly TD Makes Call For Retail Crime Reporting Systems
Westmeath Private Medical Campus Credits Public Health Cases For Success
Over 300 Irish Soldiers Spending Christmas In Lebanon
Midlands Children’s Services Project Celebrates HSE Excellence Award Wins
Midlands Towns And Villages To Receive €2.4m In Regeneration Funding
Midlands Private School Principal Urges Inclusion In Free Books Scheme
F1 Prospect Alex Dunne Brushes Off Media Speculation