Garret Kelleher (Fine Gael)

I welcome the Minister to the House and second the proposal for a six-month period to give us an opportunity to reflect more on what exactly is entailed and to arrive at the conclusion that will best fit us and also take into account the concerns and considerations of victims of crime and of survivors, as Senator Ruane articulated in her opening remarks.

In the more than 100 years since the establishment of An Garda Síochána in 1923, we have seen the service be of immense importance in protecting the State and her people. We were reminded as recently as Sunday last of the dangers and perils faced by members of An Garda Síochána when they go about their duty. I take this opportunity to express my condolences to the family of Garda Kevin Flatley and members of An Garda Síochána on his tragic passing. This Government is committed to a radical overhaul of the criminal justice system and we need to see more gardaí on our streets. We have seen the appointment of judges, which is crucial to the criminal justice system. I commend Senator Ruane on her work. I will not go into the detail because she articulated what exactly is involved very well in her opening remarks, but it is about fairness and ensuring those applying for parole are given due process. As I said a moment ago, and as Senator Ruane alluded to, it is important to consider the victims of crime and survivors. The proposal to defer this for six months is the right one and something we are happy to support. Once again I commend Senator Ruane as well as her office. It is very important and I look forward to revisiting the issue after the period of deferral.