Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I was going to ask the witnesses about the agricultural situation but Mr. McQuillan has dealt with the background of that. In the absence of a conflict in the region, is it sustainable for the population to feed itself? I do not know much about southern Sudan.

How has the African Union-appointed mediator, Thabo Mbeki, performed in his role? Has he brought the two sides closer to a deal? Discussions are going on but, as we know from our history, peace is not an event but part of a process. Will the current talks in Addis Ababa get the process back on track? What are the primary stumbling blocks in the process? Is it the funding of Nuba rebels by South Sudan and ethnic militias by Sudan and is this on the agenda of the talks? As we have seen from other parts of the world, a key bone of contention appears to be the oil pipeline fee. Will the two sides agree a common fee or will it remain a bone of contention? The price of oil is fluctuating. Can the international body review this point of dispute?

I welcome the fact that the witnesses mentioned Kalo. We need to put a human face on the conflict around the world. The witnesses mentioned this is a risky business and I ask them to elaborate. There is an increased danger for the staff of these organisations working in the region. What can be done to maintain security? Has the SPLM shown a commitment to human rights and democracy since it took formal control? These are all major questions and I will be happy if the witnesses can answer one.