Facial recognition tech and new asylum laws among bills in summer legislative programme

The programme, published today following its approval by ministers, includes 23 bills prioritised for publication during the summer session, 28 bills scheduled for priority drafting, and 63 additional bills under development across various departments.

Among the range of legislation for publication and drafting are:

• Defence (Amendment) Bill: Removing the Triple Lock requirement for overseas Defence Force deployments and introducing updates to courts-martial procedures.
• Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve (Amendment) Bill: Introducing a regulatory framework to support a state-led strategic gas emergency reserve.
• National Cyber Security Bill: Establishing the National Cyber Security Centre on a statutory basis to address growing cyber threats.
• Garda Síochána (Recording Devices) (Amendment) Bill: Introducing the safe and ethical use of facial recognition technology for serious offences.
• Health (Amendment) Bill: Enhancing corporate governance within the HSE to improve financial and operational efficiency.
• Public Health (Nicotine Inhaling Products) Bill: Regulating nicotine inhaling products (including flavours and packaging) and banning disposable vapes.
• Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill: Streamlining eligibility for social housing and addressing building control measures.
• International Protection Bill: Implementing the EU Migration and Asylum Pact.

The programme also includes 14 bills currently progressing through the Oireachtas and three bills enacted since the government’s formation in January 2025.

Government chief whip Mary Butler said: “This legislation programme, the second since the formation of the government, demonstrates our focus on tackling Ireland’s most pressing challenges.

“From delivering on housing and healthcare to ensuring our national security and climate commitments, this comprehensive agenda for the next 11 weeks reflects our ambition to serve the people of Ireland with policies that make a difference.

“I will continue to work with each minister and their departments to ensure we progress legislation and prioritise our programme for government commitments.

“The establishment of Oireachtas committees will also allow for the progression of more legislation over the coming months and years. Pre-legislative scrutiny by these committees will play a crucial role in refining many of the proposals before they are brought to the Houses for debate.

“I would like to thank all departments, the Office of the Attorney General, and parliamentary counsel for their ongoing efforts to deliver legislation that will provide better services for everyone.”