Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)

The Minister speaks about a change of mind or heart and change of policy on the part of Garda Síochána. I wish to ask him about a change of mind and policy on the part of the Government. As recently as last November, following the murder of Shane Geoghegan, the Taoiseach was questioned on the matter. He indicated that there were no plans to introduce legislation on gangland crime. When asked in particular about section 72 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006, relating to the conviction of a person for gang membership, the Taoiseach said the legal advice to the Government was that this was inoperable and perhaps unconstitutional. However, the Minister promised such legislation last week. Why the change? Has he taken legal advice on the matter?

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