Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The renewal of section 8 of the 2009 Act is a contribution to the overall framework of measures in seeking to tackle organised crime. It cannot, of itself, address this scourge in society but it can be a support to the overall work that is ongoing. We cannot ignore the activities of so-called dissident paramilitaries; neither can we ignore the grave threat posed by gang-related crime, in this city and beyond. As set out in the two reports that I have laid before the House, it is the clear view of An Garda Síochána that the provisions in the 1998 Act and the 2009 Act continue to be a necessary addition to the general criminal law. I commend the motions to the House.