Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I should have started by welcoming Senator Clonan. I look forward to working with him in this term and, it is hoped, in the coming years.

I thank the Senators for facilitating the motion so quickly. Everybody has alluded to the fact that crime knows no borders, and the only way we can tackle crime nowadays is by working collaboratively. The joint investigation teams have proven to be one of the most successful methods of bringing forward investigations and prosecutions. Tools such as the collaborative platform proposed in this regulation will continue to support that, but also improve the mechanism and way in which that is done. As the Senator pointed out, this proposal is about highlighting the importance, significance and effectiveness of the teams to date, but also strengthening that and ensuring that the way in which we are sharing information is safe. I assure all Senators that the new security platform aims to mitigate the risks that potentially exist for the security of individual data. There will be strong mechanisms and measures in place.

I thank Senators for their support on this and commend the motion to the House.