Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
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Question 512: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his proposals to amend the Explosives Act 1875 as part of the better regulations process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34193/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The Explosives Act 1875, which provides for the control of the importation, manufacture, storage and sale of explosives, is being reviewed by my Department with a view to consolidating and updating the law and policy in this area. As part of this ongoing review, it has become apparent that the fines and penalties provided for under the 1875 Act are inadequate and there is an urgent need to strengthen these provisions. Accordingly, I propose, in advance of bringing forward my proposals for a total reform of the law in this area, to take the opportunity presented by the Criminal Justice Bill 2004, which is currently before the House, to table, on Committee Stage, amendments which will significantly increase penalties governing the illegal importation, manufacture, storage and sale of explosives. In so far as the overall consolidation and updating of the explosives legislation is concerned. I envisage seeking Government approval for my proposals in this regard by the end of 2006.