Apprenticeship and proceeds-of-crime bills
Ray Butler asks when legislation on apprenticeship protections and Criminal Assets Bureau powers will be published; the Tánaiste expects the apprenticeship Bill early next year and further proceeds-of-crime legislation after ongoing discussions.
I wish to raise two items of legislation with the Tánaiste, the first of which is the apprenticeship Bill to provide for protection and responsibilities applying to employers and apprenticeships in light of the introduction of a new apprenticeship. Many Members have done apprenticeships and have seen the exploitation of certain people. Consequently, I seek the Bill's publication. When is this expected? The second Bill is the proceeds of crime (amendment) Bill to strengthen the powers of the Criminal Assets Bureau, CAB, regarding the forfeiting of the proceeds of crime.
Comment on this
On the apprenticeship Bill, that should be published early next year. In respect of the Criminal Assets Bureau and the proceeds of crime, I understand the discussions with CAB are ongoing with a view to bringing forward legislation that will facilitate more proceeds of crime being made available, in particular, to be used ultimately for the public good.