Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his contribution. This has been a tempered and sincere debate, with contributions right across the spectrum. Any legislation that appropriately empowers the Garda and other agencies to deal with the criminals who are plaguing our communities and streets is of critical importance and can only be welcomed. As we move ahead in terms of broader societal issues, we should not lose sight of the fact that, as Senator Bacik outlined, that such issues are complex and multifaceted. While this legislation is vitally important, it alone will not resolve these issues. Where there are opportunities to utilise legislation further and review, amend and add to the legislation, this should be done. It is also about empowering communities that suffer as a result of these criminal actions. We must seek to support and regenerate those communities and give them the confidence and the ability to work with Government and other State agencies in order to deal with the criminals who are plaguing them, their families and their neighbours.