Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)

We are discussing a criminal justice matter. The changes referred to by the Minister would vastly improve the section. The original section, as I highlighted, takes a blunderbuss approach which would be ineffective, would not achieve the objectives outlined by the Minister, which I support, and would probably be unconstitutional. The new approach has a much better chance of standing up constitutionally and being effective in achieving the objectives outlined.

I would still like the offence of witness intimidation included in the section. It is the only addition I would make to the list of offences, although I am not certain how best this could be done. It is crucial in the context of taking on criminal gangs.

I am impressed by and support Deputy Howlin's proposal. At 4 p.m. last Thursday, we completed Committee Stage without having had an opportunity to discuss these issues or refine the provision. It is possible that, on reflection, the approach could be further improved, particularly be taking advice from people who clearly want to give it.

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