Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

I am pleased to have the opportunity, with Deputy Alex White, to raise this important matter, although I am upset that it must be raised. It concerns the widespread and appalling brutality in Syria. Members will be aware of the reports of government forces in Syria firing mortar rounds and rockets and using heavy weaponry in civilian neighbourhoods. The United Nations has found that the orders for these attacks are coming from what it has determined to be the highest levels of the army and government officials. In a report to the UN Human Rights Council it states it has received credible and consistent evidence identifying both high and mid-ranking members of the armed forces who are ordering their subordinates to shoot at unarmed protesters, kill soldiers who refuse to obey such orders, arrest people without cause, mistreat detained persons and attack civilian neighbourhoods with indiscriminate tank and machine gun fire. So far, thousands have died.

Worryingly, Doctors Without Borders has issued a statement which refers to wounded patients and doctors being pursued. It states they are risking torture and arrest at the hands of the security service. Most of the wounded are no longer going to public hospitals. Civilians are left dying on the street because they cannot be transported to safety. Medical treatment must take place in secret and in makeshift and unsanitary operating theatres.

This will appal any right thinking person in the developed world. The frustration that many others and I feel is caused by the powerlessness of the international community to come to the aid of the people of Syria who are doing nothing more than peacefully seeking the liberty and freedom we enjoy in this country. The question for the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade is at what point do we stand up and shout stop. At what point does the developed world say enough is enough? There is also the issue of the UN Security Council being in a position of stalemate, which is obviously a concern. I look forward to hearing the Minister's reply.

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