Brian Hayes (Fine Gael)

On No. 4, the Leader proposes to hold statements on the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse today and tomorrow. Will she clarify whether she will provide time tomorrow at the conclusion of the debate to allow the Minister to answer questions? It would be much more useful than simple statements from both sides of the House. If the Minister was to remain for an hour or so and answer direct questions from Members on the issue, it would be a much more purposeful use of our time than simple statements on the matter. I ask the Leader to consider this proposal in the context of tomorrow morning's debate.

Do Senators agree that the bravery shown yesterday on the streets of Dublin by two unarmed members of the Garda Síochána in apprehending violent criminals is an example of the kind of dedicated service members of the force perform on a daily basis? While the courage shown by the officers in question in the face of the most extreme danger was a wonderful example of the work of the Garda Síochána, it also puts in context the dangers members of the force confront daily. With gardaí having to counter criminals who use firearms at will, the notion of a civilian, unarmed police force is called into question. Members of the Garda Síochána are the people who stand between such criminals and the vast majority of law abiding citizens. Given the events of yesterday, the House should recognise their bravery.

Last week the Leader was forceful in her remarks concerning the Minister for Transport, Deputy Brennan, when she stated he should "shape up and stop moaning".