John Gerard Hanafin (Fianna Fail)

I wish the Cathaoirleach well in what I am sure will be an excellent term of office.

I call for a debate on the Middle East, particularly in view of events in recent weeks in Lebanon where a Member of Parliament was assassinated. The Israeli Government, moreover, has discovered that Syria is in possession of nuclear material from North Korea. The French President, Mr. Sarkozy, is clear that he will not envisage Iran proceeding with its nuclear ambitions, as it seems hell-bent on doing. These elements create a dangerous cocktail. A debate on this issue should include, as it has not done heretofore, a discussion on the emergency response we might employ to support our neighbouring island should a major terrorist attack occur there. This debate should take place as soon as possible.