Proceeds of Crime (Gross Human Rights Abuses) Bill 2020

Public bill · Private Member · Introduced

The measure would let Ireland use its proceeds-of-crime laws more easily against assets linked to serious human rights abuses abroad, even where the conduct is not an offence in the country where it happened. It is aimed at cases involving foreign officials or others who profit from abuse, especially where property connected to that conduct is in Ireland. The purpose is to close a gap in existing law that can make it hard to act when wrongdoing happens in places without effective rule of law. It matters because it would help Ireland freeze and seize assets tied to severe abuse and corruption.

Formal long title

Bill entitled an Act to provide, in connection with the proceeds of crime, that certain conduct occurring outside the State is criminal conduct notwithstanding that it does not constitute an offence under the law of the state or territory concerned if the conduct constitutes or is connected with a gross human rights abuse, for that purpose to amend the Proceeds of Crime Acts 1996 to 2016, and to provide for related matters.

Last updated 2 May 2025