John Deasy (Waterford, Fine Gael)
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Question 394: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Government plans to ratify the United Nations Convention against Corruption; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3723/08]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I refer the Deputy to previous replies to similar questions concerning the United Nations Convention against Corruption, most recently on 27th November 2007. The Convention was adopted by the UN General Assembly in October 2003 and was signed on behalf of Ireland, when it opened for signature, in December 2003. The Convention entered into force on 14 December 2005.

As with all international agreements, before ratification can take place it is necessary to put in place any domestic legislation required to give effect to the agreement.

In consultation with the Attorney General's Office and other Government Departments, the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform (which has responsibility in this area) has examined the Convention and identified what domestic legislation is required to give effect to its provisions. The Criminal Justice (Mutual Assistance) Bill, which completed Committee Stage in the Dáil on 21 January, will enact certain necessary measures. I understand that it is intended to make whatever additional provision in Irish law is required, to enable ratification, in the forthcoming Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill.

A number of other issues in the civil and administrative area will also have to be addressed in advance of Ireland's ratification of the Convention. The Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform will be pursuing these matters with the relevant Departments and Agencies.

The importance of ratification at the earliest date is appreciated. The Convention is a broad and comprehensive treaty which provides internationally-recognised measures to prevent and combat corruption. More generally, it aims to promote integrity, accountability and proper management of public affairs and public property.