Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

That is a bit far from the Leas-Cheann Comhairle's bailiwick in the centre of Wexford to be out knocking on doors. I know the place well.

I want to compliment the Minister on the work done by the Department of Foreign Affairs, particularly that of ambassador O'Brien, in assisting in getting the release of Fr. Sinnott. Unfortunately, his release is in stark contrast to the murder of the Kiltegan priest, Fr. Roche. We would like to sympathise on his tragic passing.

I raised the issue of the safety of Irish people abroad with the Minister of Defence during discussion on defence legislation a couple of months ago. This is probably not as applicable to Ministers as it is to NGOs. The Minister said he would have a discussion on this with his colleague. If he has not, will he take this up? While I am conscious of the fact that aid agencies are aware of security, one can never have too many measures in place.

I agree that the events of recent months are a cause of deep concern. There is clearly an increase in the frequency of such events. I, too, sympathise with the family of the late Fr. Roche, the priest of the Kiltegan Fathers who was murdered last week. We are very concerned about this. My officials will be drawing lessons from the recent incidents and we will be in discussion with the NGOs to ensure the optimal security of workers and volunteers who go overseas to be of service to very vulnerable people.

See this speech in context