Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

The Leader of the Opposition, Senator Brian Hayes, raised the matter of gangland killings in general but, in particular, yesterday's events in the Limerick murder trial. He asked that the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform come here for a debate. I think we would all wish that to take place. What happened yesterday has diminished us all as citizens. I am sure a plan is being drawn up to deal with this issue as it could have grave import for life in Ireland. I have no doubt the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform would wish to come to this House. Although I have no knowledge of it, I am sure the Cabinet discussed the matter this morning. I echo what Senator Quinn said, that there is a need for reflection on the matter. We should not rush in to make incorrect statements. All speakers have shown a commendable restraint. I will speak to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform and ask when he would be able to come and give us his thoughts on the serious situation which pertains following the episode in the Limerick murder case yesterday.

A separate issue is the Nally report into the Omagh bombing which was promised for public debate. We should first seek to debate the issue about which I have just spoken. Senator O'Toole put forward various points about statements to be taken on oath, the perjury Bill and other matters. The worrying aspect to what occurred yesterday is that those who seek to evade the law will be able to see loopholes for themselves in addition to the intimidation which might ensue.

Senator O'Meara spoke of a sense of horror and she is right. She sought to have the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform come to the House to discuss the matter. She also raised the issue of a press council. That would be a worthy topic of debate as it is currently being discussed by the public.

In addition to the incident yesterday, Senator Ó Murchú, raised the issue of how names and events connected with criminal investigations come into the public arena, sometimes to the detriment of those centrally involved. He referred to the example of a case in Mullingar. There are many such issues which should not have come out and which in this case led to a sense of panic in the woman concerned.

On Thursday, 23 October Senator Finucane raised the issue of the intimidation to which witnesses were subject in Limerick. I accept he also did so on another occasion. He said there is a climate of fear in Limerick. I think it has spread throughout the country. He also spoke about staffing and Garda resources. I heard a person on the radio this morning making a similar point.

Senator Ulick Burke wished to raise the matter of the Derrybrien landslide with the Minister for Communications, the Marine and Natural Resources. I am aware that Senators Kitt and Ulick Burke are particularly interested in the issue. As well as having a Minister come to the House, the matter could be raised jointly by the Senators on the Adjournment. It is one which requires answers.