This is a renewal Bill. When the Bill was first brought before the Dáil it was intended to have it a permanent measure, but the Labour Party objected; consequently we bring it in for renewal every year. The Bill enables the State to take possession of any goods belonging to illegal organisations which are found in raids, and provision is made for an appeal to the courts in the case of any question as to whether the goods are wrongfully taken or not. Last year very little was taken, but since the Act was passed one sum of $20,000 was forfeited, one sum of £100 and one sum of £1,000. Smaller sums, together with eight motor cars and miscellaneous articles, including four wireless sets and equipment, a duplicating machine and typewriters, were also taken. In no case was there any application made to the High Court. Apparently, no one from whom we took them thought that they would be able to prove their right to hold them, and consequently we had no appeal at all.
Offences Against the State (Forfeiture) Bill, 1942—Second and Subsequent Stages.
Question proposed: "That the Bill be now read a Second Time".
Question put and agreed to.
Agreed to take the remaining Stages now.
Bill passed through Committee without amendment, received for final consideration and passed.