Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 196: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of people covered in the witness protection programme or scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22239/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The Witness Security Programme was established in 1997 in response to the activities of organised criminal gangs to facilitate those persons who are prepared to give evidence against alleged offenders. The Programme operates under the direct control and administration of the Garda Commissioner. It is not the practice and it would be contrary to the public interest to comment on the specifics of the operation of the Programme, including the number of persons admitted to it.