New legislation to tackle cross border crime – Conlan

Fine Gael TD for Cavan/Monaghan, Seán Conlan TD, has today (Wednesday), welcomed the publication of the Criminal Justice (Mutual Assistance) (Amendment) Bill by the Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald TD. This legislation will enhance co-operation with other EU Member States in fighting crime.

“The publication of the Criminal Justice (Mutual Assistance) (Amendment) Bill is particularly relevant to the border counties as it will mean fines and other penalties imposed in Irish courts for offences committed by citizens of other EU Member States can be collected in those Member States. Put simply, if someone from another EU state commits a crime in Ireland, they can now pay their fine when they go home. Escaping payment will not be an option.

“Cross-border crime is a major problem and oftentimes legal restrictions have inhibited investigations as well as prosecutions. This legislation, which is expected to be enacted later this year, will be hugely beneficial on both sides of the border.

“The legislation will also mean that property that is the proceeds of crime can be confiscated and there will be c o-operation between EU Member States in dealing with crisis situations, such as terrorist incidents.

“I have been calling for legislation of this kind for some time. The absence of an agreement between EU Member States has meant people were escaping payment of fines and it created a feeling that these offenders were getting away scot free.

“This legislation will make a big difference across the EU but especially in places like Monaghan where we deal with cross-border issues on a daily basis.”