Before calling Deputy Jerry Buttimer, I express the hope that at least one Member will be in order today. It would be a change.

I welcome the Taoiseach's earlier comments on gangland activity and the brutal murders that took place in recent days. Will he indicate the status of Nos. 47 to 49, inclusive, in the Government's legislative programme regarding criminal assets and criminal justice? We must be able to go after these thugs who kill and maim. I implore members of all political parties to work together to eliminate them from our society.

Is that a call to vigilante action?

The Minister for Justice and Equality is in continuing contact with the Garda authorities and the Commissioner with a view to ascertaining how the Government can strengthen the legislative hand of the Garda in its operations in this area. The legislation in question is somewhat down the line. We must await the conclusion of the discussions between the Minister and the Commissioner to see whether we might assist with some other element of priority legislation.