Eugene Murphy (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Déanaim comhghairdeas leis an gCathaoirleach agus leis an gCeannaire. It is lovely to be back here.

The problems we had in 2022 did not go away during the Christmas recess. I will speak about the ongoing attacks on members of An Garda Síochána. The situation is becoming very serious. We should remember that an attack on a member of the Garda not only affects the victim but also affects the community he or she serves. A garda out of action because of an assault means one fewer gardaí who can provide policing services in the local area. More important is the garda's family. I can tell the House about the traumatic effect on the partners, wives, husbands and children of gardaí who have been attacked while protecting communities. It is causing severe upset and hurt to many families. It is scaring children and other people. We must speak out and be strong on this issue.

I welcome the fact that the interim Minister for Justice, Deputy Harris, met Garda management yesterday morning to discuss recruitment in the organisation. There are plans to recruit an extra 1,000 members in 2023. The important issue is that the funding is there to recruit those gardaí. I checked this morning. Money is also available to recruit extra staff. It is important for all of us that those 1,000 extra gardaí go to Templemore and come onstream as quickly as possible.

We must protect all front-line workers. We have all heard about healthcare staff and others on the front line who are being affected and I will speak about them another day. My clear focus today is on the treatment of members of the Garda by an aggressiveness that is increasing, day by day.

I have used strong words in describing attacks on members of the Garda. We need to continuously review and look at the relevant legislation. We must ensure that the Garda has every back-up possible.

The Government is committed to the Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2022, which I understand will be brought through the Houses this year. The maximum penalty available for the offence of assault causing harm will be increased from five years' imprisonment to ten years' imprisonment when the Bill comes onstream.

The issue of body-worn cameras is controversial. I want to ensure that the public are happy about the situation. I believe gardaí need those cameras. We might need to make decisions in that regard. Some people may have worries about the cameras and require reassurance. Perhaps at some stage we could invite the Minister to the House. I know the Government is committed to protecting our gardaí and creating the opportunity for more gardaí to be appointed. Perhaps the Minister will come to the House to discuss the matter in the not-too-distant future.