Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Leader for that comment. I join the leader of the Opposition, Senator Ardagh, in wishing everyone a peaceful Christmas and thanking them for their work. That has all been said already. I appeal now for peace at Christmas and throughout the year. I appeal for peace in Strokestown in Roscommon, in particular, because violence begets violence. No issue will be resolved through violence. We are an advanced country and what happened in Strokestown goes to back to a very dark period.

We have to live in accordance with the laws of the land and with due respect for An Garda Síochána and the gardaí who have sacrificed their lives in our protection. Gardaí have courage and fairness and we must endorse them in this House today. We stand shoulder to shoulder with the members of An Garda Síochána. I appeal for a peaceful rally in Strokestown next Sunday, 23 December. I recognise the right of those participating in that rally to make their points known and to march on Sunday but I appeal for them to show respect for An Garda Síochána. The march should be peaceful and any case made should be made in accordance with the law of the land.