Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I hope the solidarity that was shown yesterday will continue and that the perpetrators of this dire act will be brought to justice as soon as possible and will, on conviction, serve the appropriate sentence of 40 years.

Senator Moran also mentioned the funeral of Detective Garda Donohoe yesterday and we would all salute the courage and dignity of the Donohoe family and, indeed, the strength of support from the community of Dundalk and of Lordship in particular. That sense of solidarity was mirrored throughout the country. There is a firm belief that we can bring these people to justice. Garda Donohoe's murder has also solidified the strength and sense of purpose of the Garda Síochána. I concur with Senator Leyden's point and also abhor any Member of the other House calling the Garda Síochána, our proud force, corrupt. It is absolutely disgraceful and outrageous, particularly at this point in time. It should not be tolerated. People can get away with these comments sometimes, but not at this particular point in time. We cannot have these types of statements being uttered on television and radio. It is completely irresponsible.

Senator Whelan also spoke about the sale of Coillte and, as I have already said, we will invite the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform to the House to deal with that matter. Senator Norris spoke about the motion regarding the Order of Business and Oireachtas committees. I fully agree with Senator Norris and the sentiments of this motion. If Senators look around now they will see that we have more Members than usual here at this point in time. I do not believe Senators should be attending committee meetings during the Order of Business. I propose that we have a discussion on that motion, in Government time, next Tuesday.