Thomas P. Broughan
Ceist:391 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform whether he will strengthen the powers available to the Criminal Assets Bureau; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21239/97]
Vol. 483 No. 6
391 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform whether he will strengthen the powers available to the Criminal Assets Bureau; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21239/97]
My Department, in consultation with the Criminal Assets Bureau, has been reviewing the legislative framework within which the bureau operates. Based on the outcome of this review I will consider what legislative change is needed. The multi-disciplinary composition of the bureau means that a range of laws are potentially at issue, affecting the responsibilities of a number of Departments, and not simply the criminal law. Any proposals for change will be announced in the normal way.
392 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will establish a drugs court to ensure speedy judicial consideration of drug-related offences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21238/97]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to a previous question tabled by Deputy Upton on 21 October 1997, Question No. 241, at column 1458 of the Official Report for that date. As I indicated in that reply, the working group on a courts commission is examining the matter. This arises out of a request I made to the chairperson. When I receive the working group's report, it will be given immediate attention.