Mary Henry (Independent)

I propose to share my time with Senators Ross and Norris.

I welcome the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Dermot Ahern, and support this motion, which is broad and generous, involving a Government commitment to contribute in any way possible to secure the release of Mrs. Hassan. From what we have heard of Mrs. Hassan, it is clear she would like us to emphasise that we are not just calling for her release but for the release of all hostages in Iraq. The motion emphasises this by condemning the practice of hostage taking for any purpose or cause. Sadly, we have experience in Ireland of this type of crime. Paramilitary groups have taken hostages in the past and, on some occasions, murdered them. It is all too real and relevant to us and we understand it is a terrible situation.

That such a good woman who has given so much to Iraq should be abducted indicates the terrible chaos into which that country has descended. We should ask the occupying forces to redouble their efforts to restore law and order. I understand it is almost impossible for women civilians to go anywhere in safety. I was disturbed to hear that Mrs. Hassan's Iraqi driver and assistant were both beaten up during her abduction. This demonstrates the lack of concern of her hostage takers for anybody's welfare. The House should emphasise that all hostages are important, not just Mrs. Hassan with her important Irish connections. A parliamentarian friend from the Turkish Parliament told me recently that every day one or two coffins are returned with the remains of Turkish lorry drivers who have been murdered while trying to deliver supplies for people like Mrs. Hassan. Supplies cannot be distributed until they are delivered. These people are being murdered by criminals who want their loads, insurgents who are fighting the occupying forces, and others. It is important to bear in mind the chaotic situation in Iraq and encourage the occupying powers to redouble their efforts to guarantee the safety of civilians.