Patricia Stephenson (Social Democrats)
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I thank the witnesses for their introductory comments. Given that countries in the global south are pushing for this UN debt mechanism, what are the kinds of impacts that the witnesses foresee more broadly around multilateralism if that were not achieved in terms of the existing relationships we have on a global scale and how reliant we are on the multilateral system to be effective? Some highlight the role of existing mechanisms like the G20 common framework. Do the witnesses think it would be duplicative to have a new mechanism or would they be supportive of that?

Will they speak more broadly about what this new economic model would look like in relation to debt distress, debt forgiveness and debt restructuring? If we were to forgive debt today, what would that look like on a broader scale in relation to the debt and borrowing of nation states going forward?

The witnesses spoke about stability and prosperity, and peace and security. Do they have specific examples in their work as to how our aid relates to peace outcomes? This applies in terms of physical peace as it relates to the absence of conflict, but also societal peace as it relates to the absence of famine or transnational health concerns.

The witnesses spoke about multilateralism, our relationship with countries that have had a similar experience around colonisation and Ireland's soft power. What recommendations would they have for the Department of foreign affairs regarding the international forums where we have a voice and influence? On that specific piece around Ireland's power, what would they wish the Irish Government to do?