Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I assume the Deputy is referring to recent media reports which have highlighted bureau matters before the Supreme Court in respect of which judgment is awaited. I will not comment on them but because of the strong powers contained in the Proceeds of Crime Act 1996, several cases have been extensively litigated before the courts. While this can cause frustration, the courts are the ultimate arbiters of what is and is not permissible under the law in a particular case. The bureau is actively involved and where cases are taken will actively defend them. Other countries are quite interested in developing the CAB model we have developed here because of its success. The Deputy is aware that earlier this year I brought in legislation to increase the powers of the CAB.

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