Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Brian Hayes, in agreeing to the Order of Business, referred to gangland murders and the need for the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform to come to the House to state if there were any extra legislative, monetary or other measures in place to deal with the problem. He recalled the period from 1995-96 when the Criminal Assets Bureau was established and other measures led to a diminution of crime at the time. Clearly, these matters move in cycles. I have asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will attend a question and answer session in the House. He was in the House with a Bill that was concluded yesterday. It is necessary that we express our opinions on this matter and the Minister has professed himself willing but it is a matter of finding a time that suits him.

I agree with Senator O'Toole's remarks on Seanad reform. The proposals passed through the sub-committee and the Committee on Procedures and Privileges, a report was prepared and an appointment made to meet with the Taoiseach regarding the matter. As we had a debate on Seanad reform earlier, we should go along the lines laid out—