Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Aontú)

I attended the launch of the Religious Freedom in the World report this morning. It is shocking reading. It estimates that two thirds of the world's population live in countries where practising their faith can cost them their livelihoods, their freedom and their lives. The report states that all faiths are under pressure in different parts of the world. I welcome that the war in Sudan was raised in the Dáil this week. It is a catastrophic event leading to the brutal murder of so many innocent civilians. Nigeria is also witnessing a surge of violence, especially against Christians. Armed groups, such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP, have carried out large-scale attacks on churches, villages and religious leaders. In just one month in two states in Nigeria, thousands of people have been displaced, 1,100 Christians were murdered and 20 clergy were killed. Will the Tánaiste and the Government use all the international leverage we have to try to end the murders that are happening and bring about peace in these regions?

See this speech in context