Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Bill was developed following detailed consultation with Garda management and with the detectives working on the ground to tackle burglary every day. It addresses two key problems they identified, namely, the relative ease with which repeat offenders can obtain bail and the fact relatively short sentences can be imposed by the courts when multiple burglary offences are taken into account.

The Bill will provide that for bail applications previous convictions for domestic burglary, coupled with pending charges or recent convictions, shall be considered as evidence that an accused person is likely to commit further domestic burglaries. The Bill will also require a court which decides to impose custodial sentences for multiple burglary offences committed within a 12-month window to impose such sentences consecutively. It is important legislation which carefully balances the right to an inviolable dwelling with the right to liberty, both of which are guaranteed by the Constitution.

The legislation, together with Operation Thor and the joint agency response to crime, is focused on tackling and managing prolific offenders. It forms part of a comprehensive package aimed at reducing the scourge of crime, and burglary in particular. The package is supported by the Government's significant investment in Garda vehicles, ICT and buildings, but most importantly in recruitment to the force. I have secured the funding that will see 1,150 new recruits enter the college between 2014 and 2016. I thank all Senators who contributed to the debate during our discussions.