John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Without this legislation, actions by organised criminals to subvert our democratic principles and criminal justice system will certainly go unanswered. No responsible Government could stand aside and allow murderous gangs to dictate how our criminal justice system should operate. It is the height of irresponsibility to act otherwise.

I wish to express my gratitude to the House for passing this motion. As I have said, the individuals involved in organised crime are desperate people who will stop at nothing to avoid being brought to account for their crimes. It is incumbent on us to ensure that An Garda Síochána has the requisite powers at its disposal to bring these people to justice. The passing of this resolution demonstrates the resolve of the Oireachtas to ensure that this remains the case.

In the end, the only effective way to combat organised crime is by disrupting and prosecuting those involved in its operations, especially the drugs trade, which is at the heart of much of its profits. Substantial efforts by An Garda Síochána and Customs and Excise are therefore devoted to damaging this lucrative business. Week in, week out, gardaí are making arrests and bringing persons before the courts, with substantial sentences being handed down in many cases. Homicide rates and related gun crimes continue to be monitored closely by senior Garda management with a view to putting in place appropriate initiatives to target this specific type of criminality. An Garda Síochána has ongoing operations to tackle and dismantle serious and organised crime. Investigations continue to be actively progressed under the daily supervision of local Garda management, supported by gardaí attached to the specialised national units.