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Limerick solicitors say new law will mean less policing

Criminal lawyers in Limerick have called for the withdrawal of the Criminal Justice Bill, which was drafted by the Government in the wake of the gangland murders. Over 130 solicitors, barristers and senior counsel across the country signed a letter to the Irish Times on Wednesday which called for the withdrawal of the bill to allow for "a reasoned debate" on the issue.

The proposed legislation, which will give gardai extra powers to combat gangland crime, was debated by the Dail this week and is expected to be signed into law next week.

Proposals to try gangland figures at the Special Criminal Court will have a knock-on effect in Limerick. resulting in  gardai from all over the country and in particular Limerick going to travel to Dublin meaning less policing of the streets of Limerick. With the same applying to solicitors and barristers resulting in delays in the local court system.

Despite the opposition which has been expressed by members of the legal profession Justice Minister, Dermot Ahern, has vowed to press ahead with the new laws.

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