Seanad debates

Tuesday, 4 November 2003

Humanitarian Issues in Post-War Iraq: Statements.

 

Currently, oil production is less than half the 1990 level. That is something one could expect should be improved in the future. We need reform in Iraq. I have already mentioned the security situation. There are also issues I have raised in the past in the House as regards electricity and water supplies. Security, electricity and water supplies in Iraq must be re-established. We are moving from the warm weather of the summer to the freezing temperatures of winter and it will be a difficult time for women, children and old people. People are not prepared for the coming conditions, raising questions about the delay in improving those areas. The Minister of State mentioned that the health budget in Iraq was $450 million in 1989 while in 2002 it was a mere $20 million, demonstrating the need to fund the humanitarian effort.

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