Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We had a debate last night in respect of where we should with this process. Politics has entered into the debate on this issue and we should try to remove it. We have personalised it in respect of the Commissioner and her role. We have been very clear in our views on the Commissioner. We have stated them publicly. What we, as a House, need to do now is try to take measures to improve and enhance public confidence in An Garda Síochána. It has taken a very serious dent in recent times. The best way for us to do that is to try to agree with the Patten-type proposal that has been put forward, and in respect of which the Tánaiste sent out draft terms of reference the other day. Fianna Fáil will be engaging with that. We will be seeking to improve the process whereby Garda Síochána confidence can be enhanced and rebuilt.

It is unquestionably the case that there is a crisis in respect of An Garda Síochána. We can seek to politicise it. We can seek the most extreme measure we can take in respect of this issue, pitch our flag there and let every other party respond to it, or we can try to work collectively and do what is best for the people of Ireland and for An Garda Síochána in order to improve the situation as it stands. I appeal to people in the House to adopt that approach.

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