Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will not require four minutes. Senator Byrne has stolen my thunder because I was going to make a similar point. I agree with him that we should make these provisions a permanent instrument that would equip the Garda to deal with a growing terrorist threat.We have had a type of terrorist threat until now, given that the provisions of the Offences Against the State Act have had to be used on so many occasions. There is a new type of terrorism developing across the world. I suggest the Minister could consider enshrining this Act on a permanent basis. If the Garda Síochána deems that it needs further additional powers, we in the Oireachtas should not be found wanting in facilitating the force with those powers.

Senator Byrne is quite correct when he states that we feel as if we are apologising for coming into the House annually to review this legislation. This is my third year doing so on behalf of the Fine Gael Party. We should not have to do it as this is what is required. It is common sense. I think everyone would like to make the legislation permanent.