Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)

Girls living in Ireland are being brought to their countries of origin to have female genital mutilation performed. Immense pressure is put on families by their overseas connections, particularly those which come from areas where female genital mutilation, FGM, is practised. Sadly, quite a number of these countries are the ones where it is not illegal. It is of the utmost importance that we put this safety net in place so that a clear message goes out that if it is the case that we cannot prosecute a perpetrator purely because of a loophole created by an international convention, then we will consider deporting him or her from this country. A heavy hand should be used to put out the clear message that Ireland will not, under any circumstances, tolerate this practice being performed on any of its residents, no matter their age or background.

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