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

Serious crime is being tackled aggressively by An Garda Síochána, with all the necessary resources deployed to the investigation and prosecution of murders related to the activities of criminal gangs. The organised criminal activity which gives rise to this violence is being targeted by An Garda Síochána across a number of fronts, including through the use of focused intelligence-led operations by specialist units such as the serious and organised crime unit and the work of the Criminal Assets Bureau.

While the challenges posed by gangland and organised crime remain clear to all, week in, week out An Garda Síochána is making arrests and bringing persons before the courts, with substantial sentences handed down in many instances. The drug trade is also being tackled relentlessly, with drugs valued at €67 million being seized by the Garda in 2013, including seizures of cannabis plants with an approximate value of €20 million.

These law enforcement operations are underpinned by a comprehensive framework of criminal law measures which are being fully utilised by the Garda. I have, however, made it clear to the Commissioner that I will look positively at any legislative suggestion he may wish to make which would render our efforts even more effective. I also draw attention to the forthcoming legislation to provide for the establishment of a DNA database to assist An Garda Síochána in tackling crime. The intelligence generated will be invaluable to the Garda and will greatly assist in the investigation of a wide range of serious crimes, including homicides.

With regard to updating the bail laws, 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 the modernisation of the law, I will seek to restructure the law in order that it has a focus on the protection of the individual and the public. The intention is that the new proposals will provide better guidance for the courts on how such protection might be provided. I intend to bring proposals to the Government on the matter as soon as possible, having regard to other legislative priorities.

I draw the Deputy's attention to the most recent crime figures which show that total recorded crime was down by 7.1% in the 12 months to the end of September 2013. The figures underline the fact that those involved in criminal gangs and the drugs trade which funds their operations are being robustly opposed. The Commissioner and I are united in our determination that these efforts will be vigorously maintained.

See this speech in context