Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I have one question relating to our ambassadors in African countries. The statistics relating to rape are frightening and appalling. According to statistics, a rape occurs every 48 seconds in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Can our ambassadors to certain African countries make representations to the governments concerned about the behaviour of their armies? While certain militias are responsible, there is no doubt that the national armies of certain African countries are also involved as a result of the lack of standards.

A significant human rights lawyer has been arrested in Zimbabwe. I ask if the Irish ambassador to South Africa could be present for her trial, because this could be very effective.

Ireland does not have an embassy in Iran, although our trade with Iran is growing. I ask the Minister to consider opening an embassy in that country.

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