Justice Minister Sporrer: 'I want to release inmates as early as possible'

Justice Minister Anna Sporrer is pushing forward with a draft for a federal prosecutor's office, a move long advocated by many in the justice system. However, the proposal has unexpectedly drawn protests from the very groups that called for it.

Sporrer acknowledges that dialogue with the Attorney General's Office, trade unions, and the Association of Judges and Prosecutors has not yet satisfied everyone. Despite this, she emphasizes that a crucial step has been taken, and the draft is now entering a nine-week review period, during which adjustments will be considered.

A significant point of contention is the provision allowing the National Council to reject candidates nominated by an expert commission. Prosecutors' associations fear this could deter qualified individuals from applying, fearing political scrutiny of their lives. Sporrer counters that parliamentary involvement is common internationally and serves as a form of democratic legitimization.

She asserts that any rejection by Parliament must adhere to the principle of best suitability and anti-discrimination laws, preventing arbitrary decisions based on worldview. The exact financial responsibility for potential discrimination claims remains to be clarified, but Sporrer suggests Parliament would cover it from its budget.