Paschal Donohoe (Fine Gael)

I wish the Cathaoirleach and the incoming Leas-Chathaoirleach the best of luck in their new roles.

The savage shooting of Garda Paul Sherlock took place in my area. I send best wishes to him and his family and wish him a speedy recovery. I offer encouragement to Superintendent Feehan and the other members of Fitzgibbon Street Garda station who will spearhead the attempt to catch the thugs responsible for the evil that occurred on the street at 9.15 a.m. yesterday.

The description of these events should give all here pause for thought. After the shooting a young man was on his hands and knees, crying, while those who were responsible for the harm fled. This savage attack raises the broader question of whether a State can protect itself with an unarmed organisation. I disagree strongly with some of the comments of my colleagues. Although the Garda has deployed armed forces in many urban areas, events such as this continue to occur. I cannot comprehend the great bravery of these unarmed people who protect law and order. Unarmed gardaí have undertaken many successful operations, such as preventing robberies and diving into the Liffey to save people from drowning. I commend their good work.