Frances Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)

There is none this week. Much legislation has been promised — I will refer to some of it in a moment — but why are Ministers not producing it this term? Last week we also asked for debates on the economy, equality and the decision to abolish Combat Poverty. I am very disappointed none of those is on the Seanad programme this week.

I express condolences to the family and fiancée of Shane Geoghegan, who was brutally murdered in Limerick. It is horrific that a young man walking home from watching a rugby match in his friend's house had his life ended in such a tragic and cruel way. I express the sympathy of this side of the House to his family and his fiancée.

There have been 127 gangland murders in 11 years, with just 14 convictions. It seems there is little deterrent to gangland crime in this country. Why can other countries manage gangland crime but we cannot do so? When I hear the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform say there are enough resources and the Garda has assured him of this, I must ask why there are no convictions and where is the plan from Government. Such a plan is needed. I urge the Leader to arrange for the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform to come to the House to explain why the new anti-gangland legislation under the Criminal Justice Act 2006 is still not being enforced. Why is it that no one has been charged with directing gangland activity? What is going on? This House needs explanations as to why there is the feeling and belief — and the evidence to prove it — that these gangs are out of control. The ordinary citizen feels there is no plan to tackle what is happening. That is a dreadful feeling for any citizen, especially the people of Limerick. We are planning for the regeneration of Limerick but on the other hand we have this appalling violence, which has to be tackled. I urge the Leader to arrange a debate in this House. We have spoken about it previously and very strong views were expressed. There is a consensus that tough action needs to be taken. Let us have a debate on the subject and see what people have to say.

It is extremely discouraging, disappointing and saddening for women and their families to see the withdrawal of the cervical cancer vaccine, which we know would save at least 100 lives in the near future. I urge the Government to re-examine the finances in the Department of Health and Children to see if €10 million can be found to save lives. I referred to the need for a plan to tackle crime but we know that if we introduce this vaccine we will save 100 lives. I urge the Minister to reconsider the decision she has made to withdraw the vaccine.