John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

I welcome this Bill to the House. We must acknowledge the work done by the military law review board, which came up with much more than is contained in the Bill. I hope the Minister will be able to act on those other matters too.

This debate allows us to reflect on the wider aspects of military life and the role of the Defence Forces. There have been occasions in the past when people have questioned the need for the Defence Forces but I do not subscribe to that point of view. We need them for several reasons, including the support of the civil power and the preservation of law and order and for peace and stability within the island, something they have achieved with great distinction.

It is a fascinating aspect of Irish history that there was such a smooth transfer from the Cumann na nGaedhal Government to the first Fianna Fáil Government, because it would have been understandable for many in the Army not to have supported the smooth transfer. It is testimony to their commitment to the State that it happened so seamlessly.