Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Mullen spoke about this morning's briefing session with Aid to the Church in Need, which was absolutely wonderful. The situation in the Middle East regarding genocide is tragic. I agree with the idea of an all-party motion and we should get cracking on that right away. The Senator outlined his support for the Alzheimer Society of Ireland. He is seeking a debate on the Government's commitment to people with dementia. Again, I will add that to the list that I will discuss with the Leader.

Senator Jim D'Arcy supported Senator Mullen on the persecution of Christians and would welcome a motion, which we will deal with, please God. He referred to the Minister for Justice and Equality and a special task force. I agree totally, obviously. As he said, these people are not republicans in any true sense of the word. I believe we need a task force, involving Revenue. The Garda will never defeat these people on its own given that these are full-time professional criminals. It needs to include the Garda, Revenue, the Customs and Excise, CAB and its Northern equivalent, and the EPA. As the Senator said, we are not being prescriptive; the detail can be worked out. Let us get on with it.

Senator Conway also agreed with this morning's briefing. It made us understand the suffering which we might not have fully realised. He also supported the idea of an all-party motion. We need to have respect for other people's beliefs - for all people's beliefs. He is right.

I think Senator Brennan was just referring to some friendly fire from the Opposition and I will not go down that road. I repeat what I have already said that the Garda training college in Templemore has reopened.