New laws to speed up investigations into white collar crime – D'Arcy

Wednesday, 25th May 2011

New laws being brought forward by the government will help to speed up investigations into white collar crime and bring those guilty of banking offences to justice, according to Cllr. Jim D'Arcy. The Fine Gael city councillor says that the public has been left frustrated and bewildered over the last few years by the length of time it takes to bring white collar criminals before the courts. "We have seen our ecomony decimated by reckless actions and yet it seems that no one is being held responsible. People understandably feel as if those behind the crimes are untouchable. The government is determined to put an end to that situation.” Cllr. D'Arcy says Fine Gael has long been calling for reform in this area and now, in government, is delivering on its pre-election promises. He says the recently published Bill will give greater powers to the Gardai and will help to quicken the pace of current and future investigations. "Gardai will find it easier to gain access to the information and documents they need to bring forward successful prosecutions. There will also be a new offence relating to the withholding of information, which means people will be compelled to co-operate with Gardai. A changed approach to detention periods will also make it possible to suspend a suspect's detention so that further investigations can be undertaken.” Cllr. D'Arcy says that the much needed measures will greatly aid Gardai and will ultimately lead to white collar criminals facing the full rigours of the law.