Colm Burke (Fine Gael)

I also welcome the visit by the President of the European Parliament. I had the privilege of sitting beside him for two years in the European Parliament where, as people may not be aware, we sit in alphabetical order. As a former Prime Minister of Poland, he is very well qualified to hold the role of President.

The issue I wish to raise comes under the remit of the Minister for Justice and Equality, although it is not covered by the Bill currently going through the House. I refer to newspaper advertisements offering cash for gold. I understand the Garda has serious concerns because people are turning up and cashing in jewellery without being required to produce any identification. No records are being kept. These items are melted down and the gold taken out of the country with no effort to find out where it came from, where it is going to or who is receiving cash for it. There is no legislation requiring registration for people who are taking in these items or jewellery. Many gardaí have stated that items stolen in house break-ins have been sold for cash within 24 hours. I ask that the Minister come to the House and explain to us his proposals to implement a proper registration process, so that the people who are putting up these advertisements are registered, that there is a code of practice to ensure that those bringing in items for sale must produce photo identification and that a clear record is kept of every item bought. I ask that this be given priority.