Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I welcome the publication of the Bill, about which there has been no contact with the Fine Gael Party.

Last year, the Taoiseach went to the United Nations on official business while the Tánaiste conducted business here. Following the release of the child rapist before rearrest, the people of the country were convulsed with horror at what was happening, and they took to the streets in huge numbers because of their concern. The people expect Government, with all its resources and legal potential, to be able to deal with these matters, but this is not what happened with this Government. But for the fact that Deputy Rabbitte and his party exposed this gaping hole last week, the matter would continue to drift.

The Private Members' Bill put forward by Deputy O'Keeffe on behalf of the Fine Gael Party deals conclusively with predatory Internet grooming. I accept the Government has come forward with the two sections of the Bill, which is to be welcomed.

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