Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick East, Fine Gael)

I welcome the section, which will be of assistance in the fight against organised crime, and so will the people of Limerick. I am of the view that it may allow us to avoid the need for juries or witnesses in certain instances. The key point is that we should have sufficient time to tease out whether what is intended in the legislation will be capable of being applied in practice. That is why my party has tabled amendment No. 4.

Is it correct that on the opinion evidence of a chief superintendent - as suggested in amendment No. 5 - and surveillance evidence provided, a prosecution could take place under a judge in the Special Criminal Court? In such circumstances, there would be no need for either a jury or other witnesses. That is a key point in the context of using the Criminal Justice (Surveillance) Bill, when enacted, and this legislation in the fight against crime. Will the Minister clarify the position in respect of this matter, which relates to the structure of gangs?

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