Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

I am glad to have an opportunity to speak on this matter and to follow my good friends in the Progressive Democrats in doing so. I am sure it has come as a shock to Deputy Joe Costello to hear himself being praised from the Government benches so I will not overdo it or repeat it. I will compliment him on raising this matter because it gives us an opportunity to debate these important issues. Over a number of days we have debated justice and the future of the Garda Síochána, and it is important to have done so. As the Minister pointed out today, the public is watching us. I am concerned about the effect on the morale of the Garda Síochána and public confidence in the force. I speak as somebody who, like my colleagues, welcomes the Morris report and feels that the judge's findings should be implemented. It raises serious issues for the Garda Síochána and the public.

I was involved in the recent debate on anti-social behaviour orders. I represent a major urban area and it is important that we support it. I know other issues exist and people made the point that we should be careful with regard to anti-social behaviour orders, but in my community in Dublin South-West people tell me they support them. I have a background in community support as my previous employment was with the National Youth Federation so I am no hard right conservative reactionary politician. I feel strongly about the issue.

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