Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I join in the expressions of sympathy to Senator Henry and to the de Buitléar family on the death of their loved ones. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anam.

I also join in the expressions of sympathy and outrage that have been expressed today on the brutal murder of Detective Garda Donohoe. They are heartfelt and they reflect the feelings of a stunned nation at this time. People cannot begin to understand how anyone could do what was done to Detective Garda Donohoe but it is a reminder of the vicious elements that still exist in society. At all times we must be cautious and supportive of our police force in every way possible. I listened to a television commentator last night and he stated how our police force enjoys the affection and appreciation of all the people, more than any police force in the world. One of the reasons for that, as I have said in the House on many occasions, is that we have one of the finest police forces in the world. Detective Garda Donohoe is a hero, a patriot in every sense of the word. He was putting his life on the line, as all gardaí must do, to protect our way of life, give us a sense of security and uphold the State.

Two Senators today referred to Detective Garda Donohoe as a gentle giant. He was that in every sense. I did not know him personally but realised this when I read about him subsequently and heard the expressions of admiration for him. I also realised that this was a moment in the life of the nation when we had to be determined that there would be zero tolerance in regard to any activity of a violent or barbaric nature, that we should help our police force through the Legislature in any way we can. In this House there is a completely non-partisan approach to good policing; we are all working for the same aim. That is the greatest message we can give from this terrible tragedy: we are united on this issue. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.