Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We have strayed far and wide. I thank Deputies for supporting this important measure which, as I stated, is about saving lives. It is not simply relevant to the G8 summit. It is also relevant because we still have terrorists on this island who are prepared to maim and kill.

Unfortunately, this island is not immune from international terrorism. We saw the dreadful event that took place in Boston. There is now an easy capacity to detonate bombs by use of mobile phone technology. We cannot ignore that. We must provide the gardaí with the support and backup they require in this area. This is a power only to be used in exceptional circumstances in a balanced and proportionate way, but it is a power that is necessary.

It is important also, I say to Deputy Boyd Barrett, in regard to the G8. Deputy Boyd Barrett is addicted to conspiracy theories. We live in a democracy.

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