Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 4 Dec 1996

Vol. 472 No. 4

Written Answers. - Special Garda Unit.

Liam Lawlor

Ceist:

130 Mr. Lawlor asked the Minister for Justice if she will support the establishment of a permanent art and antiques unit of the Garda investigations branch in view of the fact that its members currently may be diverted to general investigations; and if she will liaise with her British counterpart to examine whether the regulations and supervision can be tightened up in respect of a bi-monthly antiques fair (details supplied) in Britain to which stolen Irish goods are frequently diverted. [23462/96]

Minister for Justice (Mrs. Owen)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the operation of the art and antiques unit is currently under review. As the Deputy will appreciate, this is an operational matter for which the Garda Commissioner has primary responsibility.

I understand that the Garda Síochána maintains close liaison with British police foces in monitoring antique fairs in Britain. The Garda is not, however, aware of the fair referred to by the Deputy and, if the Deputy has further information about that fair, I ask him to communicate it to the Garda Síochána.