John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

Senator Brian Hayes, and Senators Coghlan, MacSharry, Tuffy and Jim Walsh referred to tribunals and the Garda Síochána. Senator Brian Hayes mentioned the interim report of the Morris tribunal. It is not usual to discuss interim reports but I am amenable to the suggestion and shall pursue the matter with a view to having it discussed, if that is possible.

The recommendations apply outside the terms of the report with regard to the Garda Síochána. Senators Brian Hayes and Tuffy raised this matter in regard to the reports of the Garda inspectorate and the advisory group, and the question of civilianisation of the Garda. Those matters merit discussion here. We all, including the Minister, agree that there should be more gardaí on the beat and they should be more visible. That is one of the reasons behind the civilianisation proposal. There is also the related matter of promotion within the force.

Senator Jim Walsh spoke about legislation and the tribunals. We all become impatient about the length of time it takes for tribunals to report and legislation was introduced to expedite that in a couple of cases but we must recall that the Oireachtas set up the tribunals and they must be given time. People who appear before them sometimes go to the courts to vindicate their rights and that must be allowed too.

Senators O'Toole, Finucane and Coghlan raised No. 23, regarding the so-called Curtin committee. I and Senator Finucane are precluded from speaking about it——