277. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the status of the explosives Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46702/19]

I can inform the Deputy that the Explosives Bill is intended to provide for the repeal of the Explosives Act 1875 and replacement with a modern statutory framework for the control of the manufacture, storage, importation, transport and supply of explosives. It is currently being drafted by the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel and I am informed that drafting is at quite an advanced stage.