Tom Morrissey (Progressive Democrats)

I welcome the Minister and, in particular, I welcome the fact that he has chosen to introduce this Bill in the Seanad. Many of the Bill's provisions will engender greater public confidence in the work of the Garda Síochána which, I presume, is one of the Bill's main purposes. Many members of the public, and especially our young people, have for some reason lost confidence in the Garda Síochána. In reviewing the role and functions of the Garda Síochána, we should place on record the esteem and high regard in which its members have been held by the vast majority of the public over the past 80 years. We must also place on record the diligent work that has been conducted by the Garda Síochána on our behalf, particularly the security work since 1969. We must also record our sympathy to those who have lost family members who were carrying out their duties with the Garda Síochána. Over the years, many people have forgotten the service they rendered to the State.

The time has come, however, for a review of the role of the Garda Síochána. Senator Terry seemed to criticise the Minister for taking 80 years to do so, but the Government has been in office for less than two years.