Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

We always raise human rights issues in our discussions with the Chinese at all levels. At the same time we acknowledge the efforts and the progress they are making on the rule of law. We continually raise these issues. We have had good success over the years in making representations regarding Falun Gong. I have raised the issue with the Chinese Premier, the President and others. We always raise such matters.

I have no plans to visit Iraq. The Minister for Foreign Affairs is engaged in all the international groups in regard to it. The violence in Iraq is deeply disturbing and there is no sign at present of it being brought under control. The Government has no means of assessing the various casualty figures put forward by different sources but what is clear is that the violence and sectarian killings affecting people in Iraq are at an appallingly high level.

Discussions are taking place at the Transport Council, not in the European Council, on EU transport and flight agreements. Perhaps I will ask the Minister for Transport to look at the issues raised by Deputy Ó Caoláin on the circumstances of Irish people.

We have had associations dating back 30 years with the Palestinian people. I have met them many times. I have been there on previous occasions in my capacity as Taoiseach. I met former President Arafat and many Palestinian deputations both here and at European meetings. During the Irish Presidency, the Palestinian foreign minister and other delegations travelled here. While I am not due to go there, we will continue to assist them in whatever way.

I strongly believe there is an opportunity for the European Union to play a bigger part in trying to help to find a resolution. There is a window of opportunity that perhaps was not there before for Europe. I will play any part I can. Palestine is not on the agenda for discussion this week but I am sure it will come up again. If it does come up I will lend weight to the argument for Europe to play a more constructive part in trying to help the beleaguered people in Palestine.

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