John Gerard Hanafin (Fianna Fail)

To what benefit would be withdrawal of the use of Shannon? How would it be seen? The Americans would certainly not see it as the Irish nation wrestling with its national conscience. It would be seen as a negative act. Our best hope lies in trying to influence the outcome and the method in regard to the rebuilding of Iraq in the context of humanitarian aid and assistance for its people and by playing the role we have always played – that of a neutral, non-aligned country, but one with interests.

We would be less than human if we did not recognise the American influence on our lives and its positive influence on the lives of the peoples of Europe. World wars raged in Europe twice in the past century and twice the Americans came to the aid of Europe. After the Second World War, there was still a Soviet threat. Does anyone believe that had American armed forces not been in western Europe, the Russians would have stopped at Berlin? I have no doubt that they would have kept going as far as the Atlantic Ocean. That is how Stalin operated; strength was might and might was right.

The positive influence on this country should not be overlooked, including economic and cultural benefits and, of course, historic ties. This nation has been very involved in the growth, development and progress of the American nation. Irish people have are fully aware of what is happening politically in America. We have close ties with America and that was reflected during the Second World War as well as at present.