Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I, too, express my sympathy and that of the Independent Deputies to Caroline, his wife, and the family and Garda colleagues of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe whose loss is an unspeakable tragedy. It is a very sad day for the country. The news broke last Friday night that the life of one of those charged with serving and protecting citizens - with his Garda colleague, Garda Joe Ryan - was taken violently in the course of his duty. The callous taking of the life of a member of An Garda Síochána is a most serious attack on the institutions of the State. The reaction of all right-thinking people and An Garda Síochána since last Friday night has displayed that revulsion. People by the thousand are signing books of condolence. I call on all right-thinking people in every community in the country, North and South, who have the interests of our democracy and the State at heart to reflect on what happened. This event may be the catalyst which will instill in the minds of the people that An Garda Síochána, in the main an unarmed force and which wishes to remain that way, cannot survive and do its job without the support of the public. It is a two-way street. I encourage every right-thinking citizen to get involved in his or her community, whether in Neighbourhood Watch or Community Alert, and banish the word "informer" from our vocabulary forever. We should give all possible assistance to An Garda Síochána.

We have seen that the community has lost a special man. Not only did he serve An Garda Síochána, but he was also an exemplary community man who epitomised the best ideals of An Garda Síochána. He served his country, community and family. Above all, he shared his skills and talents with others, young and old. He was a keen listener and sportsman. He was an excellent member of An Garda Síochána who could get results and was of the community, worked in the community and supported the community. I hope the loss to his family can be overcome. I hope also that this House will ensure his sacrifice will not have been in vain by providing An Garda Síochána with the resources and support it deserves and expects. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

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