Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister and his officials for accepting a number of amendments which were proposed to this comprehensive Bill. I welcome the Minister's decision to be present for almost the entire debate. It is right that we dealt with the Bill at such length in recent weeks because it is important. The amendments which were agreed and the contributions which were made by Members will add to the quality of the Bill. The establishment of policing committees, the ombudsman commission and the Garda inspectorate comprise a radical change to what we have been used to since 1924. As Senator Jim Walsh said, the legislation will mean that more respect is given to the force, which will be more visible. People in communities will have greater access to the Garda through policing committees and local representatives. I thank the Minister and his officials. I wish them the compliments of the season and a very good new year.