Fiona O'Malley (Progressive Democrats)

Today is international day to raise awareness against female genital mutilation. I want the House to acknowledge that and I call for a debate on the issue. I request that the Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Michael Kitt, would come into the House to have a debate on this matter because it needs to be recorded that yesterday he allocated funds totalling more than €1 million to the UNFPA which is engaged in an international campaign to deal with gender-based violence, in particular, and female genital mutilation specifically. It is an issue that is not only happening in an international context. It is something of which we must be aware in our growing immigrant populations. Legislation is also required, as is the need to heighten awareness. A debate in this House might help people realise it is a practice not tolerated in this country and it would highlight the issue. I urge the Leader to ask the Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Michael Kitt, to come to the House to discuss this matter, particularly as he has demonstrated a commitment on behalf of the Irish people through financial support.