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

The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy McDowell, has acknowledged that Deputy O'Keeffe is making an important contribution in bringing forward this legislation.

I acknowledge the presence in the Chamber of my colleague, Senator Morrissey, a fellow erstwhile member of the former Dublin County Council. The Minister of State, Deputy Parlon, has made reference to Senator Morrissey's efforts in achieving publication in the Seanad of his Defence of Life and Property Bill 2006, which I understand broadly deals with some of the same issues as those covered in Deputy O'Keeffe's Bill.

Other Members spoke during yesterday's debate of their personal experiences in this area. Not only have I had such an experience but I have spoken to many people in my own community in south-west Dublin who have endured the same trauma. One night 12 years ago, I and my then 11 year old son were at home when I heard the front door banging. I went downstairs to investigate and discovered that intruders had already left with the television and a cassette tape of The Corrs. In recalling this incident afterward, I always wondered what I might have done if I had confronted those intruders. Members are aware I am a quiet individual who would not harm a fly.

See this speech in context