David Norris (Independent)

I support my colleagues who have called for a debate on the Middle East, in particular the situation in Iraq, which is disastrous. A number of us said the attempt to take Falluja would have dire consequences. As Senator Ryan said, the coalition can physically take the city but the repercussions will continue for a long time.

I support what Senator Ó Murchú said about politicians. Not a single child of any member of the House of Representatives or the Senate in the United States is currently fighting in Iraq. The members would worry a little more if they were worrying about their children.

There is also a brutalisation of the military personnel in Iraq. In one of yesterday's newspapers there are reports of comments made by American soldiers which are chillingly similar to those made during the Vietnam War. It is not pleasant to hear such gloating and sneering remarks as, "Yeah! Battle damage assessed."; "Buildings gone. I got my kills."; "I am coming down. I just love myjob!". Many such quotations are given.

I agree that a debate on the Middle East should be extended to the situation in Palestine which is currently very volatile because of the parlous health of Yasser Arafat. That however provides an opportunity for Ireland, with its role in the European Union, to help ensure at least some positive direction emerges from this tragic situation.