I propose to take Questions Nos. 32 and 134 together.
The Deputy will appreciate that organised crime, by its very nature, is constantly evolving and diversifying in both its structures and activities and that membership of organised crime groups tends to be fluid. I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are two categories of organised crime groups operating within this jurisdiction. The first category consists of groups that are well established and tightly structured and are involved in drug trafficking, armed robbery and firearms offences. The second category involves groups whose activities are characterised by less cohesive group structures, and criminal activities which are mainly confined to Ireland. The operation of these groups is monitored on an ongoing basis by the Garda Síochána.
Tackling organised crime remains a key ongoing priority for both the Government and the Garda Síochána. This priority is clearly reflected in the Garda Policing Plan for 2013 which sets out the continued commitment of the Garda Síochána to pro-actively target groups and individuals engaged in organised criminal activities. The threat posed by organised crime is an ongoing threat that is tackled on a continuous basis both at national level and at international level. As such it does not lend itself to the setting of a timetable. However, we should recall that the Garda Síochána are on an ongoing basis successfully bringing people involved in organised crime activities before the Courts and securing convictions.
At European level, Ireland participates very constructively in the negotiation of initiatives and legislative instruments to strengthen police and judicial cooperation. Just last week, under the Irish Presidency, the Justice and Home Affairs Council adopted conclusions on setting the EU's priorities for the fight against serious and organised crime between 2014 and 2017. These conclusions will now inform the implementation by law enforcement agencies across Europe of multi-annual strategic plans and annual action plans in respect of each of the priorities. I can also assure the House that I am committed to ensuring that all necessary legislative provisions are in place to give effect to our international commitments and to support the operational actions of the Garda Síochána.
As I have previously indicated to the House, I am keeping under review the legislative framework underpinning the State's response to organised crime, including the provisions of the Criminal Justice (Amendment) Act 2009, to see whether any further improvements could be made in this area. In addition, work on the Criminal Justice (Forensic Evidence and DNA Database System) Bill, which will provide for the establishment and operation of the database to assist the Garda Síochána in their investigations, is very well advanced. I expect to be in a position to publish the Bill this term and am determined that it will be enacted this year.
On the question of attacks on gardaí, the Deputy will be aware that section 19 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994 provides specific protections in this regard. I believe that it is absolutely right that the criminal law should afford gardaí and other emergency workers such specific protection and that strong penalties should apply. With regard to the issue of bail law, my Department has been engaged in work to consolidate and update bail law with a view to presenting a clear, accessible and modern statement of the law. I intend to bring proposals to Government on the matter as soon as possible, having regard to other legislative priorities.
