Joe O'Toole (Independent)

I also raised the issue of the proposed release of the killers of Detective Garda McCabe last week. This matter has sparked a major debate. I cannot remember the last time I received such a response to an issue. People are genuinely worried. The debate has been confused, despite the fact that I and others stated we were prepared to defend the position that the individuals concerned come under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement until such time as a clear Government decision was taken. We voted in favour of the Government's position when it emerged and that position should remain. Who is demanding the release of the killers of Detective Garda McCabe?

Over the weekend, I waited for the convicted killers to express their views on their dastardly act. I did not hear a word of apology or a single indication that they have turned their backs on military means for achieving their aims. I also raised the issue of the two persons who absconded. What is the position regarding them?

We should have a debate on this issue. Although we sometimes argue that a debate could interfere with matters, that is not the case here. I spoke to many people from Northern Ireland and have been on the media in Northern Ireland in the past couple of days. It is important to hold a debate and place our views on record. At this stage nobody understands the Taoiseach's position. I am prepared to accept the position of the Taoiseach — and the Tánaiste — if he comes to this House, after due consideration, and says that although he does not like it, he has considered all aspects and this is the only way to achieve peace in Ireland. That is what leadership is about, regardless of party affiliation. It is unacceptable for us not have a clear understanding from where these proposals emerged and the stage at which we decided to move back from the Good Friday Agreement. If we now extend the Agreement through negotiations about these people, will that be the end of it? Are there other groups who might kill somebody tomorrow and claim the same rights in six months?

It is crucially important the proposals discussed are published. There should neither be humiliation nor triumphalism. In any kind of negotiation, everybody must back down to some extent. I agree with Senator Hayes that nobody in this situation should be humiliated. I do not have a problem with the concept of a photograph. However, I am strongly opposed to the concept of providing something which leads to more triumphalism and trouble down the road. That is not what this is about. When people sign off on an agreement, they walk away and stick with it. They should live with it. This is about much more than a photograph.

A recent OECD report shows Irish teachers, in particular post-primary teachers, have delivered good results. In spite of what ignorant people have said in the past ten years regarding reading ability and standards, Ireland is close to the top of the pile. That is a tribute to our teachers and school system.