David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I have had no immediate cause for complaint against The New York Times. Perhaps it simply has not recognised my existence, as a previous contributor was kind enough to point out. It is a very important report. I also know that if this report was inaccurate, our very efficient Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade would have countermanded it. We also know from various sources that it is true.

This use of children is tragic and revolting. The Russian Government should be thoroughly ashamed of itself. It has led to quite a large number of rather sad letters from Irish people, including one in particular that caught my attention, from a couple who had already adopted a Russian child. They were very anxious that a second adoption from Russia, which would have provided a sibling with the same cultural, religious and linguistic background, should not be interrupted. These people are being used as weapons against this committee. Irish citizens are having their maternal and paternal feelings wrung by a cynical Russian Government. I think we have to take a stand on that issue. The human rights of the children involved in adoptions should be treated independently of the nasty political motives of various governments, whether in the West or in the East.

I had no great difficulty with the emendations proposed by Deputies O'Sullivan and Deputy Byrne but I strongly support Senator Walsh - a very unusual position for me. I think it would be possible for him when he speaks to introduce those couple of words which would, as I understand, merely express the committee's support for the work of the European Parliament and its resolutions. In my view, that would be a middle way, and it could be despatched at that point.