Dáil debates

Thursday, 19 October 2006

Nuclear Test Ban Bill 2006: Second Stage (Resumed)

 

1:00 pm

Photo of Fergus O'DowdFergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)

This side of the House supports this welcome Bill. Ireland has played a fine part internationally with regard to nuclear issues, particularly at the United Nations, in maintaining a constant vigilance and presence above and beyond its numbers in terms of the size of the country. We have been peace leaders in the world. The Government and parties on all sides of the House have been strong and clear in their views on nuclear safety and related issues.

The issue of Sellafield, which I addressed earlier, engages us at all times. The Government needs to internationalise the problem and bring it to the attention of the International Atomic Energy Agency and the United Nations. In the context of nuclear issues relationships between countries like Britain and Ireland require more than government to government representation and meetings, we need an international policeman. The United Nations, through the IAEA, should use its powers effectively and efficiently and be a guarantor of our security and safety. It is not that we do not trust the British, but they cannot tell us what we need to know. I understand why they may not be able to tell another sovereign government, but there is no reason they cannot be responsible to a higher body, namely, the United Nations.

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