John Minihan (Progressive Democrats)

Let us clarify a couple of things. An act of regret or some form of recognition for an act of wrongdoing might in some way lighten my tone when I refer to these killers. In recent days we have seen a game of words played out. I fully accept the sincerity of the Minister and the Government. I also accept that their responsibility is greater than ours in moving the peace process forward. I am heartened by the Minister's words. Every time the subject comes up it is a further stabbing at the McCabe family, especially Jerry McCabe's widow. I regret that, as do the Irish people.

It has been stated in the House, and successive Ministers have repeated it, that the release of the killers of Garda Jerry McCabe does not come under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement. That is fine, but the interpretation of the Irish people is far greater than merely not qualifying under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement — it is a clear and unequivocal understanding that they do not qualify whatsoever for release.

I could speak on this subject for another 25 minutes but I only have a minute remaining. I wish I had the same latitude as applied to the Minister. When we talk about an end to paramilitarism, like previous speakers, I want a clear verification process. I do not accept that they have any intention of giving it up. I am sorry to say that, but it is my firm belief. I have never believed it is more true that their approach is to have an armalite in one hand and a ballot box in the other. That is the game they are playing and is the greatest deception we have ever had in the State. I congratulate the Minister on standing up to these people. The phrase that comes to mind is "give up yer auld sins" of CD and DVD fame. We will meet them half way, but they must be honourable in their intent and stop fooling the people and the Government and leading us a merry dance. Criminal activity is taking place and they have no intention of giving it up. Let us be serious and not play games with the killers and family of Jerry McCabe.