Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Members for their support, particularly Senator Byrne who spoke on behalf of Fianna Fáil, and Senator Barrett. It is clear that there is very strong support in this House as in the other House for the legislation. There remains a substantial threat from terrorist activity, particularly from dissident republican paramilitary groups which warrant the continuance in force of the Act's provisions. We need to send the message out loud and clear that these terrorists will be defeated and we will continue in our resolve to ensure that they cannot interfere with the citizens of this country. There have been several uses of the provisions of the Act. Senator Barrett added them up to 189 in total. As has also been said, there is now the opportunity for people to enter the democratic process. There is a very viable and active democratic process in Northern Ireland and here in the Republic and the opportunity to participate in parliamentary democracy is available to everybody who has a political view.

I reassure Senator Bacik and others that the Department of Justice and Equality does seriously consider the legislation in advance of renewing it and to that end the Garda Commissioner comments in particular on these provisions and on the necessity to retain them. I repeat the point that I look forward to the day, as does the Minister, when circumstances are such that the provisions are no longer needed and I assure Senator Ó Clochartaigh of that. In the circumstance where there is a threat to the institutions of the State that time has not yet arrived.

It is also clear that failure to put in place effective legislation to prevent, investigate or prosecute persons involved in the preparation or commission of terrorist offences would, correctly, leave the Government open to the criticism that it was not doing what is necessary to protect our citizens from terrorist attacks. The Government will not contemplate such a situation. It is quite clear that we do need the provisions of this Act. We have not reached a time in our history when they are no longer needed. I thank the Members of this House for their support.