Brian Hayes (Fine Gael)

I recently saw a television programme concerning the training of ordinary members of the force in the Garda Training College in Templemore. I was very encouraged to see that the issue of human rights is taught as a course subject. This is a recent development. Recruits to the force are being educated and trained in Templemore and must now be aware of the issue of human rights. It is important to focus on this function of the Garda Síochána. Much of the adverse or positive comments about members of the force relate to a person's personal experience of the Garda Síochána or a member of the force. The issue of human rights should be enshrined in the legislation not only because the Human Rights Commission has asked for it, but primarily because it has now become a factor in the education of gardaí and in their daily work on the streets. What is more important than protecting the human rights of the individual? It is the individual experience of dealing with members of the force that informs people's positive or negative attitudes towards members of the force. There is a solid, practical reason that this matter should be included and I ask the Minister to consider the amendment.