Seanad debates
Wednesday, 26 November 2003
Overseas Development Aid: Motion.
As regards peacekeeping, we must acknowledge that the index was probably measured following our disengagement from Lebanon. Ireland has sent 430 troops to Liberia and they will be in place before the end of the year. Having visited the country I am conscious that this is a mission not without risk. Liberia gives Ireland a huge opportunity to play its part, and not just in peacekeeping. I am convinced that we can do much work on development and human rights and carry out humanitarian works. A number of Irish NGOs are already active in the country. I intend to ensure we bring cohesion between those elements during our Presidency. While it will be a difficult job, it is one we will rise to and we have the capacity to do it. I accept that more work must be done in the area of the environment. Ireland has made commitments on climate change and we will be raising this issue during the Presidency. We need to do more work in this.
No comments