Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge what the Deputy has said about Ireland's campaign to seek a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council in 2021/2022. I take from what he has said that it is a position that has the support of the main Opposition party, which I welcome. It is important in the context of Ireland's standing on the international stage. I acknowledge the importance of the attendance of the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste in New York earlier this week. My Department has been and is actively engaged with stakeholders on ratification of this instrument. We have recently completed consultations on IHREC's research into the matter. We are due to meet the Inspector of Prisons before the end of this month on the role Ms Gilheaney's office can play in ratification of the optional protocol. It is an important role. I recently met the inspector. I am very anxious to report progress on the matter before the end of the year and will keep the House fully informed of developments in that regard.

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