James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senators for their contributions. I reiterate that the changes provided for in this Bill will enable the State to effectively respond to the issues that have been presented by the European Commission in formal legal infringement proceedings against this State. It is in our collective interests that there is consistent and effective operation of a European arrest warrant system. This remains one of our obligations as an EU member state, a status that is very much valued by our citizens and aspired to by many other nations.

I welcome Senator Horkan's positive comments on the Bill. In response to a number of the other comments, I would say that the transnational element of crime is becoming more and more of concern. Criminals are becoming more technical and more savvy and we have to move at pace with those criminals to be able to get ahead of them. I assure the House that there is extensive co-operation with the United Kingdom. The importance of this legislation on the European arrest warrant is reflected in the fact that, as Senator Ward pointed out, it was one of the key areas on which the United Kingdom moved to ensure its continuation.

In response to Senator Ward, I will certainly have another look at sections 7, 15 and 4 and I note his comments. I agree with the Senator that we have to ensure there is nowhere to hide. In response to Senator Ó Donnghaile, I look forward to seeing the Sinn Féin amendments and will give them due consideration. I acknowledge the Senator's general welcome for the Bill. I also welcome Senator Wall's general welcome for the Bill and the acknowledgement that it is largely technical. Nonetheless, the security of this State and that of our neighbours is absolutely crucial.