Michael Finucane (Fine Gael)

We should be concerned by what happened in the United Kingdom over the past few days where eight people who were probably guilty of potential terrorist offences were arrested by the British police. In this context, the approaching visit of President Bush to this country will demand increased security. We should be alarmed by what is happening in a neighbouring country. This must also be considered in the context of Sellafield. The EU Commission has directed Sellafield to destroy half a tonne of radioactive waste and several hundred kilograms of plutonium waste matter contained in a pond. Radioactive matter from the area has polluted the Irish Sea over many years. Ireland should regard Sellafield as a future potential threat. Increased security and vigilance are required for the visit of President Bush to this country, particularly as a result of what has happened in Britain over the past few days. We will discuss the matter later with regard to maritime security measures, however overall security should be a priority for us at this stage.