Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour) | Oireachtas source

There are a number of issues here. First, we have the Geneva II talks. I regret that the talks have not made real progress towards the ending of the conflict. Opposition representatives have made constructive efforts to set out realistic principles for a roadmap to end the conflict and preserve the Syrian state.

From the statement issued by the Special Representative, Mr. Brahami, it is clear that the regime, with the support of its international backers, has refused to engage on the formation of a transitional governing body, one of the key elements of the Geneva communique. I urge the Syrian regime, led by President Assad, and its international supporters - particularly Russia and Iran - to change direction and to engage seriously to bring about a negotiated end to this horrific conflict.

The second issue is the siege at Homs, which I have already mentioned. Some 2,500 to 3,000 people were under siege in Homs, with approximately 250,000 people under siege across Syria, which is a major issue.

The third issue is humanitarian relief. On a per capita basis Ireland has been one of the biggest contributors to humanitarian aid and relief in Syria. The Minister of State, Deputy Costello, announced an additional allocation of €5 million this year, with approximately €26 million committed to the humanitarian effort in Syria to date. However, the problem is getting the humanitarian aid to those who need it. That is why we need a UN Security Council resolution, which we have been encouraging. Last week's Foreign Affairs Council collectively supported that. So there is a united European Union position to secure a UN Security Council resolution, which I hope can be progressed in order to provide better access for humanitarian aid to those who need it in Syria.

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