Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister to the House and concur with the sentiments expressed by the Minister and Senator Bacik. The legislation has been called for by many people, particularly those who have been the victims of crime. It certainly will equip the courts to impose appropriate sentencing. I hope it will act as a serious deterrent for people who repeatedly engage in criminal activity, which is something that must be welcomed.

We all share Senator Bacik's view, and the Minister holds the same view, that rehabilitation is ultimately what is necessary. The House has had motions on community courts and restorative justice. When it comes to justice, the House is leading the way. I commend the Minister for initiating legislation in the Seanad. We are always delighted to co-operate with the Minister's busy programme. It is a busy legislative programme to make this country safer and better and to make citizens feel safe in their homes.

It is very poignant and worth noting that a Behaviour & Attitudes survey done in 2014 found only 67% of Irish people had confidence in An Garda Síochána, but a survey carried out in the past two or three months has shown the figure is now up to 87%. This is worth noting, and the newly-appointed Commissioner, Nóirín O'Sullivan, the Minister and the senior management team in the Minister's office and in An Garda Síochána deserve credit because we came from a low place where public confidence was very poor. The Garda always had the confidence of the Irish people. Unfortunately there was a little bit of erosion but thankfully we are back to where we want to be and it will only improve from here on in.