Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This is probably my eighth year standing up on behalf of the Government as spokesperson on justice and acknowledging that, unfortunately, we find ourselves in a situation where we must renew this extremely important piece of legislation. When it comes to these very important issues, I commend Fianna Fáil as well because it puts the interests of the State first. The primary focus of this legislation is protecting our citizens, communities and people and ensuring that people who dare to use the Armalite as opposed to the ballot box are dealt with efficiently and effectively in order to protect our society.The Minister convincingly outlined the threats that are still there to our people and society. Never was it more articulated than following the death of Lyra McKee. It is unfortunate that we must again renew this legislation, but as long as it is needed and as long as the Minister, his advisers and An Garda Síochána feel that it is necessary we are duty-bound to ensure that it is renewed.