Eugene Murphy (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I commend the members of the Garda Síochána in my county of Roscommon in the Roscommon-Galway region on their quick action recently. The activities of suspect characters offering to do work for vulnerable people in rural areas was halted. While I cannot say much more at the moment because I do not know of any charges having been brought, it shows once again if communities act with the Garda Síochána, the quick action of both can ensure that people who cause great fear and distress to older people in particular are dealt with. At a time when there is much talk about the morale in the Garda Síochána, I want to praise its members for their quick action in our county recently. As I said, they probably prevented something happening to people in the locality. I reiterate the importance of communities working with the Garda Síochána.

I ask the Leader to invite the Minister for Justice to come in here and make a statement about morale in the Garda Síochána. We need to show our support for gardaí. On numerous occasions in recent times, I have highlighted incidents where gardaí have been really badly treated. We, as the politicians who lead the country, must show leadership and ensure we give our support to the Garda Síochána. There are other cases which I will not mention today. Very disturbing incidents are happening to gardaí trying to carry out their duty. In trying to save the public, they could end up in the courts. I will say no more about that today.

Nobody can deny the comments made about housing here. Senator Boyhan spoke very passionately about it. We have never had more schemes to offer help. We have a Minister who is working really hard. The Government will turn the corner on this situation, which was neglected for years. All of us on every side want to ensure people have a roof over their heads and I am confident that will happen.