Michael D'Arcy (Fine Gael)

When will the forensic evidence and DNA sampling Bill be brought forward on the legislative programme? This important legislation, which arises from the Prüm treaty, was on the previous legislative programme. While a UK case ended up in the European Court of Human Rights, delaying the introduction of the legislation, the case has been concluded. It is crucial the Garda has every tool available to it to ensure it can conduct the particular criminal searches provided for by this legislation and the Prüm directive. The former Minister for Justice and Law Reform originally brought the legislation forward on the basis that it met the limits the European Court of Justice had determined were acceptable. Will this vital legislation be brought forward as soon as possible?