Frank Fahey (Galway West, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Senators who have contributed to this constructive debate on the Bill. This is important legislation which will strengthen our hand in the fight against terrorism and transnational crime. Effective co-operation among the member states of the European Union and among states worldwide is of increased importance in recent times. We must ensure that our international boundaries cannot be used by criminals to their advantage and that international co-operation among states, both in terms of detection and prosecution of criminals, is maximised. This Bill does that.

I am pleased by the positive way in which the Bill has been received by Senators in its passage through the House and thank all those who contributed to the debate and who proposed amendments. I look forward to an equally interesting debate in the Dáil and the enactment of the Bill in the very near future. I also thank staff in the Department who have carried out such significant work in respect of this legislation, the Acting Chairman and staff of the House.