Liam Fitzgerald (Fianna Fail)

Like Senator Minihan, I wish to refer to the horrific murder of Detective Garda Jerry McCabe and the implications of the murder and subsequent events for our democracy and for the entire island. I first wish to acknowledge the great work of the Taoiseach on his ongoing efforts to bring lasting peace to our island.

He sees it as his bounden duty to future generations that we hand over a legacy of peace throughout this island. We fully support and respect him for his wonderful vision in that regard.

Before making a couple of brief points, let me set out my republican credentials to balance my strong words to republicans.