Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 411: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to introduce increased regulation in the cash for gold and scrap metal industries in view of the increased amount of robberies of gold and metal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31098/11]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

My Department is currently finalising a report on criminal justice aspects of the 'Cash for Gold' trade and I can inform the Deputy that this report will be submitted to me shortly for consideration. Following consideration of the report I will make an assessment as to what, if any, action, legislative or otherwise, may be required. I will, in due course, make known the report's findings and any proposals which may arise.

My Department has been in close contact with the Commissioner of An Garda Síochána with a view to monitoring the position in respect to the 'Cash for Gold' trade. I can inform the Deputy that the Commissioner has reported that all 'Cash for Gold' premises in the State have been visited by An Garda Síochána and the operators of such premises have been made aware of their responsibilities and obligations with regard to purchasing gold and jewellery. In addition, I have been informed that contact information has been provided to 'Cash for Gold' operators by An Garda Síochána which will facilitate the reporting of any suspicious activity. The Commissioner has also indicated that any new 'Cash for Gold' premises that may be identified will be visited by An Garda Síochána.

I should inform the Deputy that my Department has no role in relation to the scrap metal industry. Of course, any report of robberies of gold or metal should be referred to An Garda Síochána. With regard to the Deputy's assertion that there has been an increase in the amount of robberies of gold and metal, I have requested the CSO to provide statistics directly to the Deputy.

Brian Stanley (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 412: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will commit to abolishing ground rents. [30310/11]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Part III of the Landlord and Tenant (Ground Rents) (No. 2) Act 1978 already contains a statutory scheme whereby any person may, at reasonable cost, acquire the fee simple in his or her dwellinghouse. The scheme is operated by the Property Registration Authority and since it was introduced in 1978, over 80,000 applicants have availed of it to acquire the freehold title to their property.

I should point out that a High Court judgment upholding the constitutionality of the ground rents legislation was delivered in early 2006 but was subsequently appealed to the Supreme Court. That appeal has been heard and the Supreme Court has reserved its judgment. The operation of the law in this area continues to be monitored in my Department.