James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I am grateful to the House for its consideration on these important motions today. I thank all the Senators for their contributions, particularly those in support of the motions.

As I have said, terrorist groups remain a threat to the people on this island. They are opposed to the benefits that have flowed from the peace process and are determined to undermine it. The State must retain in its laws the capacity to defeat them. We have a duty as legislators to ensure that this is so. Likewise, the renewal of section 8 of the 2009 Act is an important contribution to the overall framework of measures aimed at tackling organised crime.

We are all too well aware of the appalling damage caused by organised crime, particularly the damage caused by the drugs trade to individuals, families and communities. By renewing these important provisions, this House is sending a message out, loud and clear, that this State will not tolerate the activities of terrorists and organised crime groups and is committed in its resolve to see them defeated. These threats require an effective response from the criminal justice system. As legislators, we have a duty to support An Garda Síochána and the justice system in tackling these threats. Retaining these measures in respect of the most serious crimes associated with terrorism and organised crime, ensures that justice can be served and is free from any attempts to thwart the criminal justice process.