Ganglords 'targeting debt-ridden developers'
Monday February 16 2009
THE Government was urged yesterday to strengthen the law to prevent "Irish criminals and the Russian mafia" entering the debt collection business.
The demand from Fine Gael came amid controversy over several convicted criminals, including Martin 'The Viper' Foley, who have entered the debt collection business.
But the Government says the Garda has adequate powers and resources to deal with any criminal activity.
Irish criminals and the Russian mafia are targeting debt-ridden developers, according to Fine Gael justice spokesman Charlie Flanagan.
The criminals are masquerading as debt collectors and using violent and threatening methods, he said.
Concerns
Mr Flanagan says new laws to prevent anyone with a criminal record from working as debt collectors are needed and he will be raising his concerns in the Dail this week.
"Irish underworld elements and Eastern European gangs with links to the Russian mafia have become involved in debt collection.
"People have been threatened and intimidated. Property has been vandalised and there have been physical assaults on people who owe money. I know of one individual who is under garda protection," he said.
Regulation of the debt collection industry is a matter for the Department of Finance.
But a spokesman for Justice Minister Dermot Ahern said the Government was satisfied gardai had the ability to tackle criminality.
- FIONNAN SHEAHAN
