Colm Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I, too, wish to join in the expressions of sympathy. Garda Golden was the 88th garda to die on duty in 93 years. It is one death too many. Like the late Garda Golden, every one of the gardaí who have died over the years served the force well. It is extremely sad. It is important that we convey our sympathies to his wife, Nicola, and to his immediate family.

I also would like to join in extending my sympathy to the families of those who died in the tragedy at Carrickmines. Ten people died, five adults and five children. It brings home the need for us all to be mindful of one another in terms of where we live and work. Last year we highlighted the number of deaths that occurred as a result of farming accidents. Senator Moloney referred earlier to a person in Kerry who died in a fire. These incidents highlight the need to focus on this issue and on how to make places safer. Whether it is our homes or the other accommodation - such as apartments or Traveller accommodation - in which we live, we need to focus and take action. It is a matter that we should discuss. It is important that we convey our sympathies to the families. This is a huge tragedy and a major loss for everyone involved.