Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)

I do not suggest the Deputy has the wrong end of the stick. Doubtless, he will agree that it is a demand led scheme. I make funds available and if the Garda Commissioner believed four or five times that amount was necessary for the administration of criminal justice, I would find the money. There are no external constraints.

The Deputy states we have not seen the fruits of the scheme, such as a major trial where the scheme is in operation, in recent times. I have not seen references or press reports of this scheme being used recently.

The Deputy makes a good point on objective independent assessment of the scheme. I have received assurances that it is operated to the standards of best international practice. I have also appointed three inspectors to ensure Irish police activity is conducted to the standards of best international practice. The Deputy referred to an external senior retired judge.

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