Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail)
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Question 36: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans for further legislation to stem and prevent crime here. [14855/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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Legislation clearly has an important role to play in the fight against crime and this Government has not been found wanting in bringing forward legislation that updates our law and that enables us to gain maximum benefit from new technology. I would draw the Deputy's attention to, for example, the new legislation I expect to publish soon that will provide for the establishment of a comprehensive DNA database. This database will not only provide the Gardaí with an enhanced intelligence resource, it will also lead to greater efficiency in the use of Garda time and resources. The Deputy will also be aware of my plans to introduce new legislation on covert surveillance and money laundering.These and several other similar developments in recent years, ensure we are in a position to respond to new patterns of crime.

While legislation represents a necessary and vital part of our response, as a Government we have also recognised that a multifaceted approach to the problem of crime is required. As a result, we have undertaken extensive development and modernisation programmes such as the major package of Garda reforms, the extensive prison building and improvement programmes, with additional educational and training programmes, as well as the enhanced, targeted intervention by the Probation Services, to mention but some aspects of the Government's response to crime within my area of responsibility.

While I will continue to support a strong legislative response, I will also continue to bring forward measures that will divert people, especially young people, from crime and prevent it from getting a hold over communities. In this regard, I would mention the White Paper on Crime, the preparation of which I announced earlier this year. It provides us with an opportunity to undertake a far reaching review and it will chart a framework for criminal justice policy in the longer term.