Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South-Central, Sinn Fein)

That point of awareness is very important here and at European level. We had discussions post-European Council recently. At a European level it does not seem to me that this is getting the attention it ought to either. I might ask that at future European discussions, Ireland makes sure this will appear on the agenda. I appreciate that lots of conflicts are being discussed there, including within Europe, but is important that it reaches that level.

I note, and the Tánaiste mentioned it, that a significant part of this conflict seems to be sustained by external actors both through funding and supplying arms. A particular piece in the New York Times recently referred to the support being received by the Rapid Support Forces. Can the Tánaiste comment on that and whether the Irish Government has raised its concerns with the governments potentially providing such support?

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