Gerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

It is good that there was a discussion about human rights protections. As the Taoiseach is aware, 60% of the world's population live in Asia where there is massive poverty, inequality, child exploitation, as well as sweatshop wages and appalling conditions for millions of workers. I am interested to ascertain what discussions were held on tackling these issues and what the outcomes were. The Taoiseach has also stated there was a discussion on the impact of Asian economies on global warming. Bangladesh, India, Vietnam, Thailand, Pakistan and Sri Lanka are among Asian countries that are facing extreme risks from climate change. While it can be seen on our own small island, it is a huge issue in that region. The Taoiseach will recall that last month massive devastation was caused on the Pacific island nation of Vanuatu by one of the most powerful storms ever in that region. I understand the Asian and Pacific Ocean states are planning a major climate change conference to be held in Paris in November or December and that one issue on the clár will be a globally funded insurance pool to aid in the recovery from climate-related weather disasters. Was this issue raised at the Milan conference and what is the Government's attitude to it? Would it look favourably on such a fund to help the region?

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