Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)

I agree with Senator Harris's comments in regard to RTE News coverage of the incidents which took place during the students' protest last Wednesday. I witnessed the horrific abuse of members of the Garda Síochána on Merrion Street by these young thugs, which is all they can be described as. Incidentally, not alone were alleged dissidents of the Real IRA involved but flags and emblems of another political party were waved at the Garda Síochána while this abuse was taking place.

I ask that the Leader invite to the House the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government or the Minister for Justice and Law Reform - I am not sure which has responsibility in this area - to discuss the opening of gold shops in all of our main towns. This House needs to discuss what measures the owners of these shops are taking to ensure the people from whom they are purchasing the gold own it. I understand from the Garda Síochána that there has been a huge increase in the number of home break-ins in the towns in which these shops are located. I ask that the Leader invite the relevant Minister to this House so we can discuss what legislation would be required to compel the owners of these shops to satisfy themselves that the people selling the gold to them actually own it.