Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 81: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the extent to which the legislation passed in 2009 to specifically target criminal gang membership has so far been effective; the number of cases taken in the courts since the passage of the legislation; the number pending; the number of convictions; the number of acquittals; if the legislation has so far met its original requirements; if further amendment or enhancement is necessary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28477/10]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy is aware, the Criminal Justice (Amendment) Act 2009 entered into force, in its entirety, on 23 July 2009. The primary purpose of the legislation, together with the Criminal Justice (Surveillance) Act 2009, is to make additional measures available to An Garda Síochána to combat organised crime.

Where there is justification and a legal basis, those suspected of involvement in criminal activity are arrested, detained and questioned in relation to specific crimes. Given the serious nature of the offences dealt with under the legislation in question a full and thorough investigation of individuals and their activities is necessary and must be conducted before charges can be brought against them. The Garda Commissioner has assured me that the Gardaí are utilising the legislation fully.

I am advised by An Garda Síochána that as a result of investigations focussing on organised crime a number of Garda investigation files have been submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions for direction. Between 23rd July 2009 and 21st June, 2010, there have been 69 arrests for offences contrary to the Criminal Justice Amendment Act 2009. Four people have already appeared before the Courts charged with offences under the legislation relating to participation in organised crime activity. Given that these cases are now before the Courts, it would be inappropriate for me to comment further at this time.

I can assure the Deputy that An Garda Síochána will continue to utilise all resources available to them in order to combat the activities of those engaged in criminality of all forms. As Minister, I remain fully committed to supporting them in their ongoing efforts and will ensure that the necessary resources are made available as and when they may be required.