Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 September 2012
23. Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will consider increasing the period of permissible Garda detention when dealing with white collar crimes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39244/12]
View answerPersons suspected of involvement in white collar crime may be detained under section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 for up to 24 hours (excluding night-time rest periods) where this is necessary for the proper investigation of the offence concerned. As the Deputy will be aware the introduction of the Criminal Justice Act 2011 has facilitated more effective use of the detention period under section 4 in the case of complex investigations into white collar crime. It has done so by making it possible for persons arrested and detained for questioning to be released and their detention suspended so that further enquiries can be conducted during the suspension period. While these developments have been of some assistance to the investigating authorities, I am open to making further changes to the law if that is deemed necessary. To that end, I have asked my officials - who are currently undertaking a review of detention powers generally - to specifically consider the position in relation to white collar crime. I expect that the review will be completed before the end of the year and I can assure the Deputy that any necessary changes identified by the review will be prioritised.
