Eugene Regan (Fine Gael)

The background to this legislation is the extreme situation that exists with regard to gangland crime and organised crime. In this extreme situation, it can seem petty to suggest safeguards and amendments to a Bill, the very purpose of which is legitimate and of vital importance. However, if I read the Bill correctly, the application for these tracking devices and for surveillance does not have to be made in writing and can be made orally. It is retrospectively that a superior officer draws up a report which sets out the justification for the authorisation. Perhaps the Minister of State can clarify this point.

The reality is that despite the context in which we are adopting this legislation, there is scope for abuse. It is this we are trying to guard against and thereby ensure the Bill is drafted in the best possible way. I ask the Minister of State to reconsider his objections to this amendment.