P J Sheehan (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 95: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he plans to ratify the United Nations Convention against Corruption; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10356/08]

Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 139: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs, further to similar questions in which he stated that Ireland largely fulfils the criminal justice requirements of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, the ways in which Ireland does not comply with the convention; and when this convention will be ratified. [10270/08]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 95 and 139 together.

I refer the Deputies to previous replies to similar questions concerning the United Nations Convention against Corruption, most recently on 6th February 2008. The Convention was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly at its 58th session in October 2003. It was signed on behalf of Ireland, when it opened for signature in December 2003. The Convention entered into force on 14th December 2005. The Convention is a very broad and comprehensive treaty which seeks to promote integrity, accountability and proper management in public affairs and with regard to public property. It provides for internationally-recognised measures to prevent and combat corruption. It also seeks to support and facilitate international co-operation and technical assistance in the prevention of, and fight against, corruption.

As with all international agreements, before ratification can take place it is necessary to ensure that any domestic legislation and administrative arrangements that are required to give effect to the agreement are in place. In consultation with the Attorney General's Office and other Government Departments, the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform has examined the Convention and identified what legislation in the criminal law area is required to give effect to its provisions. The Criminal Justice (Mutual Assistance) Bill, which is due for report stage in this House tomorrow will enact certain necessary measures. The remaining legislative requirements will be dealt with in the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill, which is at an advanced stage of preparation. The Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform hopes to be in a position to publish the Bill shortly.

In addition, some issues relating to conduct and ethics requirements for public and judicial officials, the powers of anti-corruption authorities and asset recovery still require further consideration. While most of these issues are of an administrative nature, they may, in some instances, require legislation. I am informed by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform that they intend to commence consultations with the relevant bodies on these matters in order to determine the appropriate steps required in the light of the Convention's provisions.