Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

I thank Senators Cummins, Kett and Tuffy for their contributions. If this was an ideal world, there would be no need for this legislation and we all wish that it was not necessary.

Senator Cummins asked when would the provisions lapse. That is why there is a need to review this on a yearly basis and there is a unanimous view on the issue in this House. The Hederman committee was established to review the Offences against the State Acts from 1939 to 1998. The committee unanimously recommended that 13 sections of the 1998 Act be considered and there was a substantive opinion on eight of them. The committee recommended the retention of seven of the eight sections, either unanimously or in one case, by majority.

We hope that the changing political situation in Northern Ireland will have a positive impact, as Senator Kett pointed out. Unfortunately, the IMC reported on the ongoing threat of the Continuity IRA and the Real IRA and there is still a need for strong legislation for the Garda Síochána, the PSNI and the courts to allow them to deal with a difficult situation.

I am happy to come before the House and commend this resolution. I appreciate the positive contributions Senators have made today.