Feargal Quinn (Independent)

I welcome the Minister of State who has far wider experience than some Members of the House. Although listening to Senators Michael Kitt, Norris, Mooney and Browne, I am impressed by the number of people who have visited Iraq and know far more about it.

I am convinced of Hussein's record of evil in the past, but I am unconvinced by his current protestations of innocence. As long as he continues in power, the world will be a risky and a dangerous place in which to live. I am, in general, very pro-American. I am conscious of the commercial, historical and family ties which link Ireland with the US and of the benefits we have enjoyed as a result of our strong relationship with that country. The ties between America and Ireland should ensure that we listen with a great deal of sympathy to the calls the Americans are making, even if we do not go as far as giving them the benefit of the doubt.