Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am in agreement with Deputy Crowe. I am very concerned about Irish troops taking up positions in Syria at present. If the Austrians think it is not safe for them they must have good reason to do so.

I also agree with the point made by Deputy Crowe that the EU seems to be taking sides, particularly with France and Britain so eager to take up the side of the rebels. It is concerning given that Israel is part of one side of the buffer. If it were to escalate into a full conflict with the United States getting involved, Israel would also be involved, along with the Russians on the other side. I am concerned about how neutral we would be perceived at that stage.

There are no rules or restrictions on what is happening in Syria. The conflict is escalating and becoming more deranged. I am very concerned things might turn out poorly. It is very dangerous and it would be good if the UN could progress matters and get Russia and the United States to the table, because at present we were looking at a Shia-Sunni civil war in Syria, and the United States and Russia are content enough for it to operate almost like a playing field and see what will come out of it. They are both eager to strengthen their position in the area and in the meantime we are looking at thousands of people dying and bigger numbers being displaced. It is a very sad episode. The world community can take no credit or pride in what is happening. It is shameful the war is being allowed to continue in the manner it is. Only the United States and Russia can do anything about it. France and Britain throwing their spoke in the wheel is a negative in the entire situation and is only throwing more diesel on the fire.

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