Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)

I have always been against legislation that places unnecessary burdens on business but it appears this industry is entirely unregulated and the private property of citizens is suffering as a consequence. Every Member hears stories of this on a weekly basis in clinics. Why should we introduce legislation? We raised the matter with various Ministers over the years and nothing happened. We must introduce legislation to protect our valuable goods and property. That includes our listed buildings, our rich and proud built heritage of huge architectural value. We are very proud of it but the thieves will stop at nothing. Some buildings have 24-hour security but any that do not are seen as ripe for plundering.

These are organised gangs that I call roving traders. Some people try to label them Travellers but that is totally unfair to Travellers. These are marauding gangs. I do not know why the Minister is ag gáire. Cén fáth? What is so funny, Minister? I am being honest.

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