Bernard Allen (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)

Earlier the Taoiseach spoke about his discussions regarding the Indian nuclear programme. He emphasised the need to develop a peaceful nuclear programme in India for economic development. However, he did not deal specifically with the contradiction that exists with regard to UN reform and India's role in the Security Council. India is seeking a permanent position on the Security Council but is not a signatory to the non-proliferation treaty. Did the Taoiseach indicate to the Indian authorities that there is a contradiction in this regard in its quest to secure a permanent seat on the Security Council?

Will the Taoiseach also discuss the important point made earlier by Deputy Kenny? The situation with Iran at present is very dangerous and it appears to be getting worse by the day. With hindsight does the Taoiseach believe that, given the history of the European three of Germany, France and the UK with regard to the development of nuclear weaponry, especially in the case of France and the UK, there is a role for a country such as Ireland, one of the creators of the NPT? Does he believe there is a role for non-nuclear countries in negotiations with Iran? While I would not go so far as to use the word "hypocrisy", awful double standards and contradictions are being applied to what is a very dangerous situation. If it is not dealt with now, it is inevitable that nuclear weaponry will get into the wrong hands and will be a risk to everybody.

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