Frank Feighan (Fine Gael)

Senator Glynn raised the issue of gangs from eastern Europe, about which we are trying to be sensitive and measured. Two months ago, my business was burgled by a gang of eastern Europeans in the middle of the day. We pride ourselves on the Irish welcome and try to treat everybody with the same respect. After examining the camera images a day or two after the event, I believe this matter must be dealt with by the Garda and other relevant authorities sooner rather than later, as people out there are concerned. It is a growing trend and a matter we in this House must raise. We must look for the resources to ensure the trend will be stopped. If what these minorities among newcomers are doing is not nipped in the bud, it could impinge on the rest of the group. We must discuss this matter and ensure it is dealt with. The people who carried out the robbery in my business carried out numerous robberies in County Roscommon, the west and all over the country. The sooner they are stopped, the better. They are giving their fellow countrymen a bad name.