Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

The Minister has explained the point very well. I can see now why he would have no problem in clarifying matters for any jury. The whole area of telecommunications and retention of data is very important where crime is concerned and to which the Minister referred. In my view if the Garda Commissioner is of the opinion that it is necessary to retain data such as that relating to terrorist offences, for instance, for 36 months, the House should take his advice on this and agree to 36 months.

There is a big difference between six months and 36 months. However, if the commissioner believes it would be helpful to retain such records for that period in respect of the security of the State, the House should agree.