The Government will not "stand idly by" while outrageous crimes are being carried out, the Minister for Agriculture warned yesterday.
Mr Yates gave an assurance that the Government would soon announce its response to the recent series of vicious crimes against people in rural areas.
"It is absolutely clear that this Government, nor any other government, could stand idly by in the face of these outrages. They are totally unacceptable. The culprits must be brought to justice. There will be a concerted effort by the Cabinet and all the different arms of justice, including the gardai, to ensure that this is brought about."
The revulsion and horror felt by the public at the recent three murders was shared by the Government.