Shane Ross (Independent)

I also pay tribute to the Taoiseach for his extraordinary patience through this very difficult period and his wonderful talent for settling disputes of all kinds, particularly this most difficult one which has confronted this island for centuries. While it may not be solved, it has certainly been greatly ameliorated by his efforts. It is very refreshing to see all-party agreement on and support for what the Taoiseach has done.

Having congratulated all those involved, including those Members of this House, such as Senators Mansergh and Maurice Hayes, who have played such distinguished roles in bringing peace to this island, it is right that a message should go from Senators Brian Hayes and Norris about the fact while that the IRA may have gone away — hopefully it has done so — its legacy is still with us. Senator Brian Hayes was very courageous to say in this hour of great joy and triumph that while the war is over there is a real danger from these people because they are running what I believe the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform called a parallel type of operational government in this country. The amount of money, property and assets managed by those who are the legacy of the Provisional IRA is horrifying. We underestimate this at our peril. It is possible with very little investigation to find out who is doing what and where.

I will not name anybody in this House but records are open to the public which could lead people in the right direction on this matter. These people are very sophisticated about where the money goes and how to hide its ultimate destination and the ownership of the companies that control what is happening. This is happening in fashionable parts of Dublin, in Donegal, in pubs, hotels and properties. It is particularly prevalent in the obvious cash-based businesses.

I ask the Taoiseach, when he replies, or whoever replies for him, particularly to address the issue of money laundering which is a major problem. Hot, illegal, untaxed money is being washed through the system in a legal way. Let us hear what is being done about that.

I do not wish to spoil the party today. It is a wonderful day and time for the Taoiseach and the country to mark what has been achieved so far.