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

I move amendment No. 7:

In page 11, lines 14 and 15, to delete "3 days" and substitute "7 days".

Amendment No. 7, which is grouped with amendments Nos. 8 and 9, was originally tabled by Deputy Naughten on Committee Stage. I thank him for raising this issue and for his contribution more generally to the legislation. The purpose of the amendment is to increase from three days to seven days the time available to An Garda Síochána to take fingerprints, palm prints and photographs from a relevant offender. Amendments Nos. 8 and 9 are related to amendment No. 7 as they seek to amend to seven days references to three days that appear later in the same section. This is to ensure we have consistency.

I acknowledge retired Sergeant John Hynes, who is in the Gallery. I thank him sincerely for his work and his contribution over the years, not only specific to this issue but as a member of An Garda Síochána. I acknowledge him and thank him for his support.

Amendment No. 7 is very welcome. It is something we have taken on board since Committee Stage. Amendments Nos. 8 and 9 are simply to ensure we have consistency throughout the legislation.

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