Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The important thing is that the European Union continues to engage. We have already committed certain funds to the matter of capacity building. That will continue and its advancement will be dependent on the political situation in Libya, which is under ongoing review. The Deputy's concern is about the migration situation. It is important to recognise the fact that in 2016 alone, 181 irregular migrants were detected on the central Mediterranean route. The vast majority of these people reached Italy, which has reported an 18% increase in arrivals. This is a very challenging issue and it is important to note the vast majority of these migrants are unlikely to meet the criteria allowing them to qualify for refugee status. In the first instance, we should look towards achieving political stability in Libya. However brief my acknowledgment might be, it is very important to acknowledge the grave role of the Irish Naval Service in the Mediterranean region, with particular reference to tens of thousands of migrants whose lives have been saves by dint of Irish intervention.

See this speech in context