John Gerard Hanafin (Fianna Fail)

I ask the Leader to arrange a broad debate during this term under the general heading of international terrorism. During our break events at Beslan in Ossetia shocked us all. Perhaps the Leader might write a letter of support from this House to the Russian ambassador. These terrible events were probably unique. In the past, the face of evil has tried to hide itself. However, this was the first time terrorists prepared to murder innocent children were shown on prime time television, which shocked us as it shocked the world. Here as in Europe we are looking for an age of enlightenment involving tolerance for different views while holding our own views dear and getting on with living with others. It is very difficult to reconcile this with people who it seems have not even reached the age of reason. The Russian authorities must maintain the rule of law and the rule of international law. They face challenging times.