Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

I agree with Senator Tuffy. As my earlier comments indicated, I am very much in favour of providing greater empowerment to the Garda and of the reasonable removal of some of the inhibitions which may constitute obstacles to its effectiveness. If such provisions were made, there would be a concurrent need to provide for strong accountability. I am persuaded to a greater extent by the amendment Senator Cummins will move later on providing for accountability at local level. It would be much more effective to provide for accountability in that way rather than on a national basis. The best approach is to provide for co-operation between the Garda and local public representatives to create a dynamic for the accountability which is essential to a modern, effective police force.