Paul Bradford (Renua Ireland) | Oireachtas source

It was appropriate that we marked the appalling tragedy in Paris with a moment's silence. What we should attempt to do is have a full and frank debate on the security and political crisis facing both Europe and civilisation in general. The attendance in the House of the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Fitzgerald, has been requested and I echo that call. I heard the comments of the Minister for Defence, Deputy Simon Coveney, at the weekend. He outlined his view to the effect that Ireland is in no way under threat. That is an innocent statement. We need a substantial debate on the threat facing both Europe and western civilisation. This is a matter I have been raising for the past two years. Our response to the actions of ISIS has been entirely inadequate. We will sleepwalk into disaster unless we start taking this matter seriously.

I congratulate our newest Senator, Máiría Cahill, and wish her well in the context of whatever political route she chooses to take in future. In seeking to replace former Senator Harte, she is certainly attempting to fill large shoes. We think of the former Senator with affection and we wish him well for the future.

Through the years in this House I have had the privilege and pleasure of serving with colleagues from across the Border in the other jurisdiction. I refer to Gordon Wilson, John Robb and Eddie Haughey. Before that there was Bríd Rodgers and Seamus Mallon. They all had a major and constructive impact on this House. They were very much involved in changing of minds and attitudes. It is fair to say that they came to the House to be constructive. They came in the spirit of reconciliation and of spreading a message of hope to us all. Their role was strong and significant. I know this is what Senator Cahill aspires to as well. It is important that all of us attempt to see everyone's perspective and that we can see something different to black and white - we should always try to see the shades of grey.As a Member of the House, I saw people change their minds because of contributions made by individuals such as John Robb, Gordon Wilson, Edward Haughey and Sam McAughtry. That spirit of generosity and the goodwill those former Senators displayed in debates here was very helpful. I am sure the Senator will act in the same fashion. We look forward to working with her and sincerely welcome her to the House.