Brian Hayes (Fine Gael)

I would like to mention an incident that occurred in Dublin last weekend. A young firefighter who works for the Dublin fire brigade service received 35 stitches to the face when a lunatic hooligan decided to throw a bottle at him. Such incidents constitute an increasing trend not only in Dublin but also in other cities. As I said some years ago, emergency workers such as firefighters, paramedics and nurses, who are often attacked by people who are out of their minds with drink, drugs or both, should be given additional legal protection. I understand that the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform is considering an amendment to the Criminal Justice Bill 2004, which is before the other House, in this regard. I would be grateful if it could be expedited in this House as soon as possible. We need to do something to help those who put themselves in the front line of hooliganism and vandalism and encounter people who are trying to destroy our society. We need to protect such people and the jobs they do. I ask the Government to accept the amendment to the Criminal Justice Bill 2004 as soon as possible. I hope Senators will have a chance to debate this matter if the legislation in question comes to the House before the summer break.