Dáil debates

Wednesday, 25 September 2013

Other Questions

Organised Crime

2:30 pm

Photo of Alan ShatterAlan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The operation of organised crime groups in this jurisdiction is monitored on an ongoing basis by An Garda Síochána. I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are two categories of organised crime groups operating within the jurisdiction. The first consists of groups that are well established and tightly structured and are involved in drug trafficking, armed robbery and firearms offences. The second category involves groups whose activities are characterised by less cohesive group structures and criminal activities which are mainly confined to Ireland. Tackling these groups remains a key ongoing priority for both the Government and An Garda Síochána. This priority is clearly reflected in the Garda policing plan for 2013.

In targeting such activity An Garda Síochána continues to develop and implement strategies to dismantle and disrupt criminal networks, utilising advanced analytical and intelligence methods to facilitate targeted intelligence-led operations. Notwithstanding the challenges faced in tackling organised crime, An Garda Síochána is unceasing in bringing those involved in this type of criminality before the courts and securing convictions.

As referred to by the Deputy, the issue of intimidation is a challenge. However, all information or complaints relating to the alleged intimidation of those involved in criminal trials are thoroughly investigated by An Garda Síochána and appropriate action is taken.

The Deputy also raised the issue of our bail laws and questioned whether they are fit for purpose. As I have previously indicated to the House, I believe that bail law must be continually reviewed to ensure that all possible avenues are taken to protect the public against the commission of crime, particularly serious crime, by persons on bail.

Accordingly, my Department has been engaged in work to consolidate and update bail law with a view to presenting a clear, accessible and modern statement of the law. In the context of that modernisation of the law, I will be seeking to restructure the law so that it has a focus on the protection of the individual and of the public. The intention is that the new proposals will provide better guidance to the courts on how such protection might be provided. I intend to bring proposals to Government on the matter as soon as possible, having regard to other legislative priorities.

Additional information not given on the floor of the House.

I am also keeping under review the legislative provisions underpinning the State's response to organised crime, including the provisions of the Criminal Justice (Amendment) Act 2009, to ascertain whether any further improvements could be made in this area. A comprehensive review of the proceeds of crime legislation is also under way with a view to identifying possible improvements which would serve to strengthen the operation of the Criminal Assets Bureau.

I draw the Deputy's attention to the recently published Criminal Justice (Forensic Evidence and DNA Database System) Bill 2013 which provides for the establishment of a DNA database. Enactment of this legislation will represent a major step forward in the fight against serious crime. I am committed to ensuring that all necessary legislative provisions are in place to support the operational actions of An Garda Síochána.

Following yesterday's publication of the CSO recorded-crime statistics, I again take this opportunity to commend An Garda Síochána on its work on behalf of our communities. The latest official recorded crime figures, which cover the 12-month period to the end of June 2013, show reductions in 12 out of the 14 categories for which figures are given, and an overall reduction of 8%, building on reductions recorded in the previous figures from the CSO.

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