John Gerard Hanafin (Fianna Fail)

I also welcome the IMC report. However, I noted with alarm the fact that a young man who had driven through a checkpoint in County Down was shot dead over Easter. Such a response is not appropriate in peacetime when there are alternative responses available, such as slowly bursting the tires of cars so as not to endanger anyone. It is sad to see a young man die in peacetime for the sake of a car and a joyride. The response taken was unnecessary. In light of further confirmation from the IMC, armed forces in the North could be stepped down and take a less belligerent approach to anyone who drives through a checkpoint. I acknowledge that driving through a checkpoint is a serious matter.