Thomas Byrne (Fianna Fail)

I assure the Minister that despite the Opposition defeating the Government twice in the Seanad this morning, the Fianna Fáil side wholeheartedly supports the Bill and will ensure that it is passed. I find very little done by the Government to be persuasive but the Minister's speech here has been extremely persuasive, not that we need persuading. He clearly outlined the security situation in the State and in the adjoining state. He also clearly explained the sections of the Act that need to be renewed in order to have full force and effect. I am persuaded by the evidence provided by him of the usage of the various sections of the Offences Against the State Act on multiple occasions throughout the year. The provisions have not been used on a daily basis but more than a weekly basis. That detail would persuade anyone that needs such evidence or anyone tempted to oppose these provisions.

While these provisions are draconian they relate to the fundamental security of the State and are used by the Garda authorities and the gardaí in the course of their duties. The provisions are necessary to protect the State and its foundations and we support it. We agree with the Minister that dissident groups remain a huge threat to the existence of the State and the peace process. The legislation is crucial and my party supports it.