Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 207: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of recognised criminal gangs currently operating here; the number who are known to have retired, emigrated or are in prison; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14750/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by the Garda Authorities that membership of organised crime gangs tends to be fluid and the nature of criminal activity is such that offences committed by members of gangs may or may not be connected with the individual's membership of such gangs. The identification of offenders as members of a criminal gang is not an essential factor in the prosecution of offences. It is not therefore possible to ascertain the precise number of criminals who are also members of criminal gangs operating in this country.

With regard to criminal gangs, I am further informed by the Garda Authorities that currently there are two categories of organised crime groups operating within this jurisdiction. The first category consists of individuals/groups that are well established and tightly structured and are involved in drug trafficking, armed robbery and firearms offences. The second category involves groups whose activities are characterised by less cohesive group structures, and criminal activities which are mainly confined to Ireland. Organised criminal gangs operating in Ireland are targeted by the Gardaí on an ongoing basis using Intelligence-led operations undertaken by specialist units of An Garda Síochána, under the remit of the Assistant Commissioner, National Support Services. These units include the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Garda National Drugs Unit, the Organised Crime Unit, and the Criminal Assets Bureau.

The Gardaí also use a multi-agency approach, whereby all of the National Units from National Support Services act in a coordinated manner. These units are also supported by the Security and Intelligence Section who assist with intelligence briefings and the provision of timely information.

I am further advised that information on organised crime groups is disseminated to Europol on a regular basis. An Garda Síochána liaises with other law enforcement agencies throughout Europe and elsewhere, exchanging information and intelligence on Irish criminals living abroad. This has led to a number of successful joint operations targeting attempted importation of drugs and firearms resulting in a number of significant arrests here and in other jurisdictions.

An Garda Síochána adopts best practice by coordinating Garda resources and using the available criminal legislation to its fullest extent. This approach is being closely monitored and kept under constant review by senior Garda management in conjunction with Regional Assistant Commissioners and heads of units.

Question No. 208 answered with Question No. 202.