Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his reply. I am conscious of the fact he has introduced new legislation which will be supported by my party, Fine Gael, as stated on numerous occasions.

Does the Minister agree that organised and gangland crime results from the illegal drug activities in this country and in particular, the importation of drugs? What is the Minister's view on the issue by the Department of Transport of an international haulage licence to a convicted drug dealer? Since the occurrence of this event in September 2008, what actions has the Minister taken first, to have consultations and discussions on the matter with his colleague the Minister for Transport, and, second, to have consultations and discussions with the Garda Commissioner?

Has the Minister expressed concern on the matter? If so, what action does he propose to take in order to allay the very serious public concern and to deal with the mixed message from his Department? On the weekend that he issues a raft of new legislation which he suggests will tackle gangland crime, we have the situation of a known and convicted drug trafficker against whom very serious charges were dropped, which will later be the subject matter of a question from my colleague, Deputy Rabbitte. What action is the Minister taking on this issue?

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