I, along with my Regional Independent TD colleagues, have in response to the shocking assault and stabbing of young children on their way home from school and the deplorable riotous behaviour in Dublin city centre yesterday, submitted a formal request to An Ceann Comhairle, urging the suspension of all other business in Dáil Éireann on Tuesday next to ensure a comprehensive debate on these urgent matters.

The Regional Group of TDs state, our immediate thoughts are with the young children that were injured, their carer, their families, and the entire school community of Gaelscoil Choláiste Mhuire. To address these events, the group has taken swift action to bring attention to these distressing events and a request to prioritise a discussion on this important topic on the floor of the Dáil.

Regional Groups TDs have submitted a formal request to the Ceann Comhairle asking him to suspend the Dáil so this urgent matter can be discussed next Tuesday.

The right of children to be safe in their communities, as well as the safety of all, must be a top priority. The group strongly emphasises that there is no place in society for mob mentality, violence, stirring of hatred ideologies and destruction. Members of the Regional Group commend the bravery of emergency services personnel and condemn the attacks on them as they worked to protect the public during the recent incidents.

In light of the terrible events, the Regional Group of TDs calls on the Government to provide a detailed report on these serious incidents that impact residents, visitors, and businesses alike.

The Regional Group emphasises the need to take a tougher stance on crime, ensuring that legal representation is balanced with the rights of the community and people’s safety. The group specifically calls for a debate on the legal aid provided to individuals with multiple convictions, criminals offending while on bail, as well as the necessity for new legislation imposing mandatory custodial sentences for purposefully causing injury to a Garda.

Regional Group of TDs remain committed to advocating for the safety and well-being of the community, and they implore the Government to prioritise these urgent matters during the upcoming Dáil session on Tuesday.