Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to acknowledge the ongoing and evolving situation regarding technological advances. I am keen to ensure, as is the Garda Síochána, that Garda equipment and investigative capacity is in a position to keep abreast of these changes.

I acknowledge the reforming nature of our legislation and in particular the recently enacted Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act. The Act significantly strengthens existing criminal law in combating child exploitation. I also acknowledge the success of Operation Ketch being carried out by An Garda Síochána. The operation specifically targets those in the business of possessing and distributing child exploitation material.

I wish to highlight the ongoing training and the Commissioner's five-year modernisation and renewal programme. The programme involves training for gardaí to ensure they are fully up to speed and can deliver a police service that, in the circumstances, is proper and adequate.

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