Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State is welcome. I also welcome the opportunity to speak in this debate. I will not rehearse all the points because there is pretty much universal agreement on the salient point and the intention of the legislation. I commend Senator Malcolm Byrne and his Fianna Fáil colleagues for introducing it.

The first point I want to make, which is probably the most important and the crux of this matter, is that there is zero justification for the attacks on the homes of my colleagues Deputy Martin Kenny and the Minister for Health, Deputy Stephen Donnelly, or any other public representative, whether a Member of either of these Houses, a Minister or a party leader. After two attacks on Deputy Martin Kenny's home, unfortunately his family has decided to move as a result. That is the outworking of the intimidation and harassment.

Ultimately, the attacks on people's homes and intimidatory behaviour outside them are a criminal matter for the Garda to act upon. I am not behind the doors in saying the full rigour of the law needs to be employed to bring anyone involved to justice. These are not matters that fall within the domain of peaceful protest. I agree wholeheartedly with Senator Hoey in that regard. We do not for one second suggest this is the intent of the legislation, and that is why I hope that if Senators have concerns or suggestions to strengthen or better define some of the provisions, they can raise them on Committee Stage and later Stages.

It is important in this debate to be very clear. The Garda and criminal justice system are meant to protect people when they are in their homes and to protect communities. It is important to note that while we are debating the threats and difficulties elected representatives are experiencing in their work, there are others facing similar difficulties. We have seen nurses and doctors intimidated. Gardaí, paramedics and many other front-line workers are regularly assaulted or verbally or physically abused while going about their work.

As has been said, the right to protest peacefully is a right that was hard won and one we have to protect. Peaceful protesting has been very important in bringing about positive, progressive and democratic change in this society.People have a right to hold their public representatives to account. I do not think anybody would disagree with that. We have to strike the right balance between protection of people, families and family homes and the right to protest. I am firmly of the view that it can be done. It is possible to ensure that the right of protest continues but also that elected representatives and those around them such as their families and staff are safe and protected. I commend Senator Malcolm Byrne and the Fianna Fáil group and wish this legislation well going forward.