Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Cuirim fáilte roimh an Aire Stáit ar ais go dtí an Teach. Fianna Fáil is delighted to support the motion, which is about an aid for the EU in its fight against criminal financial activity. The proposal, as I understand it, would create a central register where bank accounts would be accessible all across Europe. That makes perfect sense. I understand this motion must be passed in both Houses of the Oireachtas. We have had a three-month window in which to pass the measure. It expires on 1 November but I have no doubt that we will meet the deadline.

The Attorney General has given the proposal his blessing, which gives us some comfort. When I was researching this matter last year, I discovered illegal revenue generated by criminal activities in the EU amounted to €139 million in 2019. This shows the magnitude of the task that lies ahead of the EU. Any measure we can introduce to assist with the sharing of information is to be welcomed. In that regard, I am delighted we are discussing this motion this afternoon. If Ireland were not to support it, it would send a bad message about our commitment to fighting money laundering and other criminal activity of a financial nature. I fully support the motion.