Ivor Callely (Fianna Fail)

I join others in congratulating the Cathaoirleach on his appointment. I look forward to working with him, along with the soon to be elected Leas-Chathaoirleach, officials and other Members.

In regard to the situation that prevails in Burma, I ask the Leader, along with the leaders of the other parties, unanimously to support a motion in support of the people of Burma and that this should be passed on to the relevant authorities as quickly as possible. The Minister for Foreign Affairs yesterday called for a rapid response from those in a position to do so. This House should take that approach. I do not want to direct the leaders of the various parties but I ask that they consult, agree and pass the appropriate resolution without delay. In accordance with the Order Paper and whenever we can place it on the agenda for debate, I look forward to inviting the Minister for Foreign Affairs to make statements on the issue or to address it in the most appropriate manner. I ask that the leaders meet so that agreement can be reached and a resolution unanimously passed.

I congratulate members of the Garda Síochána for the speed with which they were able to detect a stolen vehicle after receiving a telephone call on the matter yesterday. I offer my solidarity to Garda Sherlock, who happened to serve in the J district of the city, an area with which I am familiar. I understand him to be a very active garda and we certainly saw that yesterday. I wish him a full and speedy recovery. The House should acknowledge the speed with which the Garda Síochána responded and identified the vehicle concerned, as well as express its regret at the response of the culprits, who were up to no good and may have been after a human life rather than money. As someone who comes from the north city, I commend members of the Garda Síochána on their efforts to find the culprits and would like to think the House would join me in wishing for a successful and speedy conclusion.

If we are to have a debate on the issue of gun culture, we should acknowledge the success of Operation Anvil. However, hardened criminals continue to abuse regulations in other areas. I cannot understand, for example, why a person who commits another crime while on bail is not automatically remanded in custody. Whether they use guns, knives, bottles or other weapons, these hardened criminals are on bail after already being convicted in court. What do they have to lose by continuing along the trail they have followed in the past? I ask that the House would acknowledge the good work being done by the Garda Síochána and would identify the supports gardaí need to combat the crimes that affect each and every community.