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

I have come from chairing another meeting and there was mention of a report done for Trócaire on aid for trade and Ireland is to the forefront of untied aid. The debate hinged around where we are doing business and trading with other countries, particularly in Africa and Asia. Human rights and due governance must be part of this. When we speak of human rights, the right to freedom of conscience and religious believe is part of the process. The Department of Foreign Affairs has taken submissions on this, and although the date for them has passed, there will be consultation. It is another area that we could consider when we talk about freedom of conscience or religion. It is also a human right.