Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

I agree with the general point the Deputy makes. I have taken a personal interest in the United Nations over many years and there can be no doubt whatsoever that if there was ever a body that needed reform, the UN is it. I also tend to agree with the Deputy on the issue of appointments. The permanent members have a disproportionate influence. I well remember that in 1978, when I was a human rights fellow in the United Nations, the person to whom I answered was a formidable Russian lady and her major concern with regard to my activities was that I made expenses claims at the appropriate high level. I do not believe that has changed.

There are many reasons to be cynical about the United Nations but we do not want to damage what is there.

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