Fiona O'Malley (Progressive Democrats)

I am glad of the opportunity to speak on the case of Ms Ingrid Betancourt. It is important that we highlight not just Ms Betancourt's case but also the plight of other hostages who are held not only with Ms Betancourt or in Colombia but throughout the world. It is appropriate that we do this in this democratic Chamber. It is important to recognise the risks that some people take in their native countries when seeking to represent people or when they are elected. Politics is a noble profession and some people risk their lives to pursue it.

It is unfortunate, as Senator Boyle mentioned, that the political association Ireland has had with Colombia has been dominated by the shameful connection of Sinn Féin with FARC. The FARC originated as a political organisation to highlight the plight of the poor in Colombia and to seek justice through representing the poor. However, it has now become a dangerous paramilitary organisation. It is most unfortunate that Ingrid Betancourt, in trying to campaign politically, has become its hostage. It is always good to take the opportunity to remember people who are taken hostage when they seek to become political representatives. The issue of justice really comes to the fore.

She is a woman of enormous courage and is a great humanitarian. This is not the first time a political chamber in Ireland has paid tribute to her. My colleague in South Dublin County Council, Councillor Cait Keane, had a motion passed some years ago on the issue and on that occasion I met Ingrid Betancourt's daughter. In such situations one gets a sense of the pain for the family. This was a family growing up without their mother. It is one thing to experience the absence of one's mother but it is another to learn of the dreadful ill treatment she has had to endure during her incarceration.

We must remember all of the hostages, political or otherwise, who are held. It is a traumatic situation for them. These are people who are motivated only by the good of other people and how they believe they can help their communities. For that reason, it is appropriate that a united House should show solidarity with Ingrid Betancourt and other hostages being held captive. I am glad the Seanad is doing that.