Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

On what date will that meeting take place? I do not know if the Minister got the chance to have much of a discussion with the South African ambassador this morning. It is imperative that he contact her as soon as possible because the events unfolding in Zimbabwe are a disgrace.

Is the Minister aware that Mr. Morgan Tsvangirai of the Movement for Democratic Change wrote to South African President Thabo Mbeki outlining his concern, condemning President Mbeki's chairmanship of the regional mediation attempts between the two sides in respect of the running of the election campaign and accusing him of being biased towards Mr. Mugabe? The position is unacceptable.

While I do not want to encroach on the next question in the name of Deputy Michael D. Higgins, the Dáil's long-standing condemnation of Mr. Mugabe is falling on deaf ears. The regional powers have a responsibility in this regard. In light of Ireland's close ties with South Africa, it is imperative that the Minister inform the South African ambassador of the strong views of Irish people, as represented in the House.

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