Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I asked the Tánaiste previously whether Irish troops would take part in a mission to the Central African Republic or whether the matter had been discussed at Cabinet level. The situation in Ukraine is worsening rapidly. Riots and violence have been evident in recent days. Did any discussion take place on what the European Union would do in that regard? Has the Government come forward with ideas to enable the Foreign Affairs Council to address the matter?

I mentioned the interim agreement on nuclear energy involving a reduction in sanctions on Iran. One of the issues that came up with the Iranians was that in the past three years the amount of drugs coming through Afghanistan had quadrupled. Did any discussion take place on the matter? The Iranians are interested in co-operating with other countries on it, as Iran is hugely affected by it. I do not necessarily agree with the Iranian response to the problem which includes the execution of those involved in drug smuggling. However, it is a huge problem not only for Iran, as the drugs will end up on the streets of Dublin. In the past we all saw the effects of cheap heroin coming into the country, with the loss of thousands of lives in Dublin, across Europe and elsewhere in the world.

The Taoiseach referred to migration flows in the region in the context of the Lampedusa tragedy. The more regular migration flows are a problem. Was there a discussion of the coffin ships that bring people to Europe? Likewise, did a discussion take place on the issue of people trafficking? That is probably the next most lucrative illicit trade after arms and drug smuggling. There is no indication that the issue was discussed.

The Taoiseach referred to the youth guarantee implementation plan. He said a broad outline had been submitted to the European Commission. What will happen next?

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