Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree with Deputies Daly and Wallace that the situation is becoming more serious. The figures showing an increase of 3 million in the number of refugees in less than two years speak for themselves. While Ireland is a small country, we have a voice that is listened to and carries some authority internationally. The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Eamon Gilmore, and his Minister of State, Deputy Joe Costello, actively highlight unacceptable circumstances that arise in various countries.

The United Nations report on the international refugee crisis states that most refugees have been displaced as a result of wars in different parts of the world. Most people will agree that Ireland makes a significant contribution by sending troops overseas to places of conflict as part of peacekeeping operations. Despite our economic difficulties, we also make a significant financial contribution, as I outlined. Our efforts were acknowledged and recognised by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, AntónioGuterres, during his visit in October 2012. I assure the Deputies that the Tánaiste and his Ministers of State will continue their efforts to highlight problems. The Government is committed to doing everything possible in this regard.

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