Feargal Quinn (Independent)

Senator Glynn made an eloquent and sincere call for an investigation into Eddie Fullerton's murder, while Senator O'Murchú referred to the Pat Finucane case. I was impressed to hear on radio earlier that three suspected terrorists had been arrested in Britain and would be held by the authorities for 28 days. Imagine what they could do in that time. We passed legislation a few years ago to provide for the detention of suspected drug dealers for seven days and the detention of suspected terrorists for three. The British can hold them for 28 days. It is a reminder that if they had the will, they could investigate the Dublin-Monaghan bombings and the Eddie Fullerton and Pat Finucane cases. They have more powers to do so than they used to have. I support the call made.

The Institute of Fundraising of Northern Ireland has called on people to check the identity cards of charity collectors. I am not sure what the legislative position is in this jurisdiction. I am always concerned when I put money in a bucket for a collection about how much is given to the charity. Senator O'Toole has pointed out privately that in parts of Britain collections where a percentage is paid to the collector are banned. Such legislation should be considered here. Between that payment and VAT, charities have not been helped in the manner they should have been. We should examine this issue in the near future.