Frank Fahey (Galway West, Fianna Fail)

The amendment seeks to ensure that all State agencies co-operate with the International Criminal Court. However, the legislation will place considerable duties and powers on the Minister, as set out in sections 17 and 19. Similar powers and duties are set out for the High Court in sections 19 and 22 and for the Garda and the Garda Commissioner in sections 23 and 38. On Committee Stage, the Minister stated that all these powers and responsibilities will be required to be discharged in accordance with the letter, terms and spirit of the legislation. Having considered the matter further, the Minister remains of the view that the amendment is not necessary and he does not propose to accept it.

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