David Stanton
Ceist:218 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to introduce legislation making it an offence to steal confidential information; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20881/02]
Written Answers. - Proposed Legislation.
I refer the Deputy to item 35 of the Government's legislative programme published by the Chief Whip on 7 October in relation to a proposed Criminal Justice (Protection of Confidential Information) Bill. The matter referred to in the Deputy's question is one of the matters being considered in connection with that Bill.
David Stanton
Ceist:219 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the legislation which he has introduced or plans to introduce following the signature of the Council of Europe's convention on cybercrime; the dates for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20886/02]
The Council of Europe convention on cybercrime was signed by Ireland on 28 February. A preliminary examination of the requirements to enable Ireland to ratify the convention has been carried out and that examination shows that some legislative changes will be required. The extent and scope of these changes is still being considered in my Department. It is expected that legislative proposals which will enable Ireland to ratify it will be brought to Government in the first half of 2003.