John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)

I thank the Deputy for raising this very important issue. Those recommendations we were unable to accept, either at the original session in October or in terms of the addendum to the report which will be discussed on 15 March, raise serious issues where different rights and different issues of public policy need to be balanced. Ireland is committed to meeting the highest standards of human rights but, as the Deputy will appreciate, it takes time to deal with difficult issues, in particular those with resource implications. Where there are competing rights, there may be no simple answer and, on this side of the House, our responsibility is to solve problems in a sustainable way and at time to balance competing rights and interests in a way that is fair to all and complies with our constitutional obligations.

We are very grateful to everybody whose participation helped to make the process so meaningful and constructive. Civil society and NGOs engaged thoroughly with us to raise awareness of the UPR mechanism in general and we are keen to maintain the excellent working relationship established during this first UPR cycle - the Deputy's points have been taken on board by the Minister, Deputy Shatter - which will be a most positive and constructive element as we all work towards our common goal of striving to improve human rights in Ireland.

The most important phase of this entire process is the implementation of the commitments we have made. That is the most important thing.

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