Feargal Quinn (Independent)

I welcome the Minister for Justice and Law Reform, Deputy Smith, and congratulate him on introducing the Bill and assuming his new role, albeit short-lived.

I brought up the topic of begging several months ago, following a letter I received from the owner of ten shops in Dublin 1 and 2 who felt threatened by the behaviour of beggars as he moved between his premises. He also made the point that such behaviour affected business from tourists. When I visited India, I was warned the sheer number of beggars on the streets would make me feel uncomfortable and advised to have small denomination notes to give them. Once a comparatively small gift was given, one was not threatened by them. The threatening behaviour of beggars here, however, is becoming an issue of concern. Ireland did not have a tradition of begging to the extent now seen. We have not been able to acquaint the newcomers who engage in threatening behaviour while begging with our traditions and practices in this regard.

The Minister has explained how in the Dillon case the courts found an overall ban on all forms of begging to be unconstitutional. I understand how this legislation will overcome this. The question that arises, however, is the legislation proportionate to what is required. Senator Regan referred to some of the amendments made by the Dáil. The Bill is balanced to ensure those persons, including tourists, who feel threatened by the behaviour of beggars will be accommodated. The Minister has achieved a balance in the legislation which I support.