Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

I support Senator Cummins's call for a debate on crime, the Garda and so on, as there are reports of many gardaí retiring. In this context, other issues should be considered. For example, the idea of promoting people based on seniority in the public sector generally and specifically in the Garda should be reviewed. Promotions should be based on merit. As is the case in private sector management, excellent gardaí in their late 20s and early 30s would be capable of taking on senior roles within the Garda. We should also consider the age of retirement, which is too low. There is no reason for someone in a senior position in the Garda, even at regional level, not being allowed to remain on after the current designated retirement age.

It is not fair to point fingers at the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform and say he has not appeared in the House. He has been a frequent attender during debates and the passage of legislation designed to strengthen the fight against crime. It is good to see that the legislation introduced last year on extending some existing counter-terrorism measures is being rolled out by the Garda in the fight against gangland crime. How it will play out in the courts will be interesting to see. The legislation covering the DNA database, another important tool in tackling gangland crime, will be before the House shortly. I agree with the call for a debate.

I disagree entirely with Senator Alex White. He must have missed many of our good debates on economic issues. Some of the Oireachtas' better debates have been held in the Seanad. The tremendous contribution made by many Senators has been acknowledged by all sides, including some members of the media who would not normally be prone to making such acknowledgements.

I call for a debate on the proposed interest rate increase. It is untenable that banks supported by the taxpayer will impose significant interest rate increases that will adversely affect those for whom making repayments is already difficult. This issue warrants an urgent debate and Government action.