Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This is an area that we continually review. I cannot confirm at this stage whether it will be included in this particular legislation. It is important, however, that we ensure our legislation is strong enough, as well as providing additional supports such as financial resources and ensuring the Garda has the equipment and the technology it needs. It is also important that this type of legislation is updated and reviewed which we do continually.

On the actual support that we are providing, An Garda Síochána has a record budget this year. Additional funding has been provided to update its equipment and ICT. This is not just to bring it in line with its European counterparts to allow it to continue to engage with them, as many criminal gangs operate outside of this jurisdiction. It is also to make sure that in its operations at home, it has the best equipment and technology available to ensure these criminal gangs and individuals do not evade the law.

The matter of the Deputy's question is kept under review. Any required changes and further improvements will be done.

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