Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

War is obviously regrettable in any circumstances and we have seen why in the current conflict in Iraq. War should be a last resort but that was not the situation here, as there was still time for the arms inspectors to carry on their inspections. Though that might ultimately have led to war it would have meant all avenues were exhausted, which was not the case.

Senator Ryan stated that the leaders of Fine Gael and the Labour Party said the war was illegal and he prompted the Government to do likewise. Such a statement would be highly irresponsible. That is not for the Government to determine – there are international bodies which can determine such issues. However, the conduct of the war is a matter for scrutiny.