The Minister for Justice and Equality has announced that he intends to table amendments to the Criminal Justice Bill giving himself the power to shut down mobile phone networks in advance of the G8 summit. This move comes alongside what can only be described as a huge campaign of hype and hysteria whereby drone planes are being brought in and thousands of police are also being brought over from Britain.

Is the Deputy asking about promised legislation?

Is this legislation part of a systematic campaign to try to intimidate peaceful protesters at the G8 summit? These peaceful protesters against war and militarism will be intimidated and bullied North and South.

The Deputy's paranoia knows no bounds. The Government has no agenda to stifle peaceful, democratic protest. While we are on the subject, let me say that we welcome the holding of the G8 summit in Fermanagh. It is a unique opportunity to focus attention on Northern Ireland and the Border areas as well as on the investment needs and job requirements of those areas.

I hope the holding of the G8 summit in Fermanagh will help attract investment North and South of the Border to provide additional employment for those who need it.

Why do we need these powers?

If the protesters could stay up there a few nights, it would be great for tourism too.