Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I begin by offering my sympathy and the sympathy of the Fine Gael Party to the family and friends of the late Mr. Shane Geoghegan, who was gunned down at the weekend. I also offer sympathy to his sporting colleagues in Garryowen FC, and to the people of Limerick. I propose to nominate Fine Gael's spokesman on justice, Deputy Charles Flanagan, to represent the party at Mr. Geoghegan's funeral tomorrow.

The murder of Mr. Shane Geoghegan is another example of an attack on this State. It is an attack on democracy and a challenge to our democratic system. The reaction to this killing reminds me of the waves of revulsion and anger that swept the country following other incidents in the past. I refer to the deaths of John Morley, Henry Byrne, Jerry McCabe, Donna Cleary and a number of others who were gunned down in the line of duty or as innocent bystanders. I was a member of the Government when a challenge arose as a result of the murder of Veronica Guerin. I know what that Government decided and did, and I know what the consequences were for the perpetrators of that crime.

I welcome the Taoiseach's meeting with the Garda Commissioner, who brought him up to date on the activities of his members and the situation regarding resources. However, the Government response to this latest atrocity has been too bland and too easy. This is a war which the Taoiseach does not appear to be winning. I have offered assistance from this side of the House on previous occasions and do so again. How does the State propose to respond to the murder of Shane Geoghegan, an outstanding citizen and sportsman of his native city, who was gunned down in a case of mistaken identity following an execution order delivered by an individual or individuals?

See this speech in context