The Garda Síochána (compensation for malicious injuries) Bill has been on the list for some time. Out of respect for the Garda Síochána and in recognition of the sterling service its members provide in protecting our communities, this Bill should be published at the earliest opportunity.

In view of the resurgence of organised crime, the Taoiseach is aware the Criminal Assets Bureau, CAB, has proved to be a powerful weapon in the war against gangland crime. To assist the State in its fight against gangland crime, will the Taoiseach use his influence to ensure the criminal justice (proceeds of crime) Bill is published at the earliest opportunity?

The heads of the Garda Síochána (compensation for malicious injuries) Bill were approved last July. It will be later this year before it is published. Regarding the criminal justice (proceeds of crime) Bill, discussions are still ongoing with CAB and, accordingly, I do not have a date for its publication.