In reply to Senator Terry's question about the deadline, 1 January, the framework decision on joint investigation teams is a relatively recent one, approved on 13 June 2002. Since its publication, work has been ongoing in my Department with a view to preparation of legislation to enable this country to make a decision as quickly as possible. However, as can be seen from the text of the Bill, the establishment of joint investigation teams within member states is not a straightforward matter. Despite the fact that it is already happening in practice, trying to provide for it in law and set parameters is not straightforward. As the framework decision is silent in this regard, many of the practical and procedural matters must inevitably be dealt with in legislation. Extensive consultation was required with the Attorney General, the Garda Síochána and the Revenue authorities, as well as with other Departments and Offices which could be involved in the establishment of joint investigation teams in order to determine the framework which would allow such teams to be established and operate most efficiently. Given the heavy workload in the law reform division of my Department and the office of the parliamentary counsel of the Office of the Attorney General, and the busy Dáil and Seanad schedules since June 2002, it has not been possible to bring the legislation before this House any earlier. I apologise for this.