Billy Lawless (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for being here. I am always grateful for the Irish organisations and the example they set worldwide. There is no doubt that Ireland is one of the leaders in providing aid. I welcome that in this instance we are aiding people in these countries to become self-sufficient, which I believe is the right route to go. I am very involved in immigrant rights. Irish people were once refugees. We sought and took refuge in other countries. Many Irish Americans have short memories of where they came from. I am proud of World Vision and the many other organisations which do this work throughout the world. It is in our DNA and I hope that will always be the case, never forgetting what happened to us 150 or 160 years ago.

I would like the witnesses to elaborate on the refugee camps. It is incredible to think that Uganda has an open border in light of what it went through many years ago. It is to be complimented and helped as well because I am sure that puts a severe strain on its budget. It was mentioned that there are 2 million people displaced internally and 2 million in neighbouring countries. Perhaps the witness would elaborate on whether this is the case in South Sudan only or in other countries as well.

Yesterday, the Seanad had a discussion on the Palestine-Israel conflict. In this regard, I believe there is inactivity on the part of the European Union. Ireland has shown before that it can take the lead in taking on these countries and showing them up for what they are. Like Deputy Seán Barrett I would like to know why these conflicts are continuing. In terms of the EU, there is much talk but little action. As a member of the EU, Ireland needs to stand up and be counted on this matter. We did so previously in respect of other countries, which I am sure I do not have to mention. We need to take action ourselves because what is being done with regard to the conflicts in these countries from a European Union point of view is inadequate. I know Sudan has split into two countries. Perhaps the witnesses would elaborate on whether other countries are taking in refugees from South Sudan and, also, on the issue of internal displacement.