Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)

We have had a reasonably lengthy discussion on this issue and I would like to move on to important issues such as the seven-day detention provision for listed offences. I would like the Tánaiste to comment on his change of mind since he received a letter on that matter. Will he indicate the other amendments he is minded to take, as we approach the end of the debate? We are on section 11 of a 51 section Bill and we need to know where we stand on that because this is not an adequate Committee Stage debate.

I have an open mind on tagging but I remain to be convinced. I am wary of an unproven technology but if it provides for the release of criminals without having to incarcerate them while ensuring they are no danger to the public, it may be a useful device. I am not convinced the technology is good enough to do that. We will return to the practicality of tagging on another occasion.

See this speech in context