Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We have had a very interesting debate with most members contributing to it. On behalf of the committee I thank Mr. Peadar King and his guests for their contributions. The meeting was worthwhile. Given what is happening in Goma the meeting was timely. It is important that such difficult humanitarian situations are not forgotten. The committee will not forget them and will continue to monitor the situation in respect of developments. He mentioned how we could highlight the issue and continue to do so. I reassure him we will continue to monitor the situation, particularly later this afternoon when the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade appears before the committee to report on the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting. We are preparing the agenda for Chairs meeting which will be held in Dublin next year. Obviously we have to consult with the troika and the EU on that matter. It is something I would support. A small number of members are travelling to Geneva next month to attend the UN Human Rights Council when we will certainly raise the issue. I thank the delegates for appearing before the committee. I ask them to keep up the good work of highlighting issues in this area. It is people such as the delegates and the committee who can continue to highlight the inequalities and human rights abuses in these areas. The Oireachtas is a powerful area in this regard. It is good we can work together.