Eugene Murphy (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I agree with my colleague, Senator Carrigy, regarding the backlog in the warmer homes scheme. It is important we deal with that issue.

Like other Senators, I welcome the retrofitting programme. While there will be snags, there is nothing that cannot be worked out. The one-stop shop idea is fantastic because it will bring the programme to the people, who can visit the shop to discuss their circumstances in the context of retrofitting. Of course, the fact people can break up the retrofit, begin with one part of their home and spend less money will suit many people. A key aspect of the scheme's success will relate to low-cost money. We need loans to be made available at a low cost. I understand that is something the Government is working on and it will be needed to help people with the finances. This is a good news story and whatever issues, snags or questions people have will be addressed by the one-stop shops, which will be very helpful to people.

I have raised the next issue previously, but this time it relates to an unfortunate incident that happened in the Deputy Leader's county. I refer to the outrageous attacks on older people, one of which happened in Celbridge last night. Not only are these people being robbed but they are being hurt and injured. All of us - the Minister for Justice and every one of us as legislators - have to deal with these perpetrators. What is happening to older people is utterly cruel. Not only are they frightened but they are being harmed in their homes. I am not being alarmist but they are happening all too frequently. Ours is quite a safe country but it cannot be allowed to continue that our people are being attacked in their homes like this. I am sure everyone agrees it must be stamped out. The provision of free legal aid needs to be reconsidered, as do the sentencing laws. I hope we will deal with the issue as quickly as possible.