Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Having listened to the Tánaiste's comments today and having read the reports and information members have been getting recently on Syria, particularly the United Nations Human Rights Council report of May, June and July that outlined the appalling human rights abuses on the part of both the pro-and anti-government sides, one cannot help but ask the first question on the effectiveness or otherwise of the United Nations. While everyone present agrees with the Tánaiste on the political solution, unfortunately, the main players are pushing for a military solution. Who is going to induce them to talk and get them all to the table? I refer to the role of Iran, which could play a significant role in Syria and I wonder whether Iran, particularly with the new regime, is being taken sufficiently seriously given the other issues surrounding it?

On the humanitarian side, I acknowledge what Ireland is and always has been doing. However, is there a role for European countries to relieve the burden somewhat on the surrounding countries by taking refugees? Are there plans for so doing? Moreover, pressure should be applied to those countries that are not contributing as well as they should or are not honouring the promises they have made. One group met some members of this joint committee and I put them in touch with Irish Aid about the idea of funding what was called a Jasmine Tent. This would be a safe place for women, particularly in light of the increasing number of rapes of women. Talks were under way in respect of counselling and perhaps Irish NGOs here could facilitate that

On chemical weapons, is a move regarding the other four countries that have chemical weapons also part of the process? Finally, I seek the Tánaiste's comments on the safety of the Irish troops, including those in Lebanon. I believe that if and when this war ever ends, there will be a need for an even bigger commitment to pick up the pieces in terms of repairing infrastructure and with regard to the mental, physical and emotional problems people will have.