Dáil debates

Thursday, 18 May 2017

Criminal Justice (Offences Relating to Information Systems) Bill 2016: From the Seanad

 

1:25 pm

Photo of David StantonDavid Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the House for facilitating this important legislation and agreeing to the amendments. It is of particular note that this is the first legislation in this jurisdiction which is specifically dedicated to dealing with cybercrime. It is also timely in seeking to protect vital information and communications systems from attack, a reality which was, unfortunately, clearly demonstrated last weekend when 200,000 systems in more than 150 countries were targeted in an unprecedented global cyberattack. The need to safeguard modern systems and their important data is more pressing than ever. We must help to protect individual citizens, businesses and Government structures alike from cybercriminality. The legislation ensures unlawful activities related to information systems are criminalised and that strong penalties are in place to deter and punish offenders. I am sure the legislation will make a very significant difference in combating and prosecuting cybercrime and prove to be of immense benefit to An Garda Síochána in its work in this area. It is, therefore, a very welcome and important addition to the Statute Book. I thank colleagues for their support.

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