Ivana Bacik (Independent)

I will speak with the Senator. However, the issue deserves a fuller debate. The Minister has pointed out that the IMF-EU deal requires a reduction in the numbers of gardaí. We must examine how best that can be achieved.

I welcome the announcement today that an investigation will be held into the treatment of women and girls in Magdalene laundries. The establishment of an interdepartmental committee is an important step towards what I hope will be fuller redress and apologies for the women and girls who spent so long incarcerated in these institutions. I pay tribute to the Justice for Magdalenes campaign and the individuals who have pushed for this for years.