Minister for Justice Helen McEntee will seek Government approval for the renewal of provisions of the Offences Against the State (Amendment) Act 1998 and the Criminal Justice (Amendment) Act 2009, for a further period of 12 months beginning on 30 June.
It is understood that the minister will tell Cabinet that there remains a real and persistent threat from terrorist activity, including from so-called dissident republican paramilitary groups which remain active in the State.
Ms McEntee’s view is that the existence of such threats, including the threat from violent extremism and international terrorism, warrants the continuation of these laws.
She also considers that there remains a substantial threat from serious organised crime in the State, particularly from criminal gangs – some with significant international links – who are engaged in the trafficking of drugs and firearms, as well as in other serious crimes, and who are prepared to commit murder.
Pathways to Work Strategy
Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys will bring a memo to Government today on the Pathways to Work Strategy which is focused on supporting persons who are long-term unemployed into the workforce.
Ms Humphreys will tell Cabinet that the long-term unemployment rate in Ireland is now at a record low of 1.1% and her department is focusing on getting people into the workforce through further education, training and work placement schemes.
As part of this, around 50,000 people on the live register are being signed up to personal progression plans with the Department of Social Protection’s Intreo service where they will be required to meet with Intreo employment advisors fortnightly.
Those who fail to engage with these supports or who are not making a genuine attempt to find a job will see their payments reduced.
Already this year 3,000 people have had their social welfare payments reduced as part of this initiative.
National Payments Strategy
Minister for Finance Michael McGrath will update Government on the National Payments strategy and Access to Cash legislation.
It is likely that National Payment Strategy will focus on ensuring cash is accepted in certain settings such as pharmacies and grocery shops.
A key part of the overall strategy is the Access to Cash legislation and Mr McGrath will bring the Government up to date on the progress of that Bill.
Under the proposed legislation, ATM numbers will be maintained at December 2022 levels.
Regional criteria will specify the minimum number of ATMs per 100,000 people and the proportion of people that must be within 10km of an ATM and a cash service point.
In addition, for the first time, the Central Bank will be given powers to regulate ATM operators and to oversee service standards in this area.
