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

I wish Ms Keogh well in her term. These were very staggering statistics but it was also good to hear the positive stories. I did not quite catch what was said about the numbers of displaced persons within Sudan. Are they all Sudanese?

With regard to conflict resolution, I met with another NGO yesterday and we spoke of how there may be a need to refocus somewhat and that conflict resolution has to be nearer to the top of the agenda. I totally accept the fact that people have to be fed and kept safe, but unless we get to the crux of the conflict everything is just going to continue as it is. Following on from that is the need to look after countries that are in conflict and very fragile.

We must consider the role of the Government in South Sudan because I am sure life goes on in its own pleasant way for the Government there. I am sure that things are very pleasant in Juba for many of its members. Is there any urgency on the part of the Government in South Sudan to reach a resolution? Mr. Cunningham referred to beneficiaries. It would be interesting to hear exactly who he has in mind. We can all speculate about who is benefitting from the conflict continuing. What is the role of the main players in trying to bring it to an end?

We hear from the EU that part of the funding is for tackling the root causes of migration. Conflict is a major cause of migration but we do not see it putting it up to people that they have to sit down at the table to bring about a resolution. We are now talking about sustainable development goals, STGs, but how can we possibly achieve any of the STGs if we are still working in conflict situations?

World Vision has 44,000 employees, many of whom are local to the countries in which they work. They would have better access to some of the more difficult places. What kinds of employees are used? Do they get particular training for the work they are doing?

In 2015 there was a peace agreement but nobody seems to be driving it. As the Chairman said, it is going further and further down the agenda. Many countries believe that the Irish Government could do more on the conflict resolution aspect because they see Ireland as an honest broker. When the witnesses ask about Government support from Ireland, what exactly can it do at EU and UN levels?

We saw the cash transfer system operate in Malawi and Mozambique. It is amazing what a small amount of money, directly into a person's hands, can do. The person has that sense of ownership and makes the decisions about it.

World Vision Ireland has been there for 30 years. What has it achieved? I am aware that this discussion is about South Sudan, but I would also like to hear more about where the NGO works in Syria. I can talk to the witnesses about that after the meeting if they prefer.