Katherine Zappone (Independent) | Oireachtas source

-----the issue of how we go through a process of ratification. However, we have always felt that it is best to examine this issue in the context of a concrete example. That is why this process is so helpful.

Dr. Flynn initially presented us with guidance, both from the Council of Europe and the United Nations, on how countries might go about ratification. It was suggested parliaments could be, or ought to be, involved in the process. The OHCHR requirement is not necessarily that the state be compliant with all the provisions but that it be able to demonstrate it is in conformity with the object and purpose of the convention. Dr. Flynn presented us with the Council of Europe and UN standards or guidelines for going through the ratification process. I presume our Government is influenced by these. Has this ever been examined publicly in any way, or has there been any explication of how we actually go through the process of ratifying a treaty, apart from the convention about which Dr. Flynn is speaking?