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

I thank Mr. Butler for such a comprehensive paper. In the context of his comment that "the Taoiseach is the highest representative of Government and, accordingly, has a strong input into the formulation of Irish foreign policy and its delivery", will Mr. Butler outline his views on the Taoiseach's remarks in respect of the separation of trade and human rights during his visit to Saudi Arabia? Were those remarks both predictable and clumsy? I have also discussed this matter with Mr. Noel Dorr and Mr. Denis Staunton in the context of whether it is possible to align trade interests and human rights.

Asylum and migration are two of the great humanitarian causes of the modern era. I wonder how we will be judged in respect of our efforts in respect of both. A recent report indicates that Sweden has taken in the largest number of refugees from Syria. Ireland is very low down in the context of the number of refugees it has taken in from that country. Will Mr. Butler indicate how he thinks Ireland will be judged with regard to its efforts in respect of asylum and migration?

Mr. Butler is based in Denmark. Professor Joseph Lee, the historian, voiced an opinion about Denmark and Ireland to the effect that the former was pursuing a much more independent and co-operative small farming social model than Ireland. I know that Denmark is a member of NATO and I am not advocating that Ireland should follow its example in that regard. Where does Mr. Butler see Ireland and Denmark in the context of a comparison of their approaches to human rights? My impression is that Denmark is more vigorous than Ireland in respect of this matter.