Dan Boyle (Green Party)

Senator Mullen also raised the question of Burma and the treatment of the Chin people. Indeed, several speakers raised issues in the foreign affairs arena, including the need for an international commission of inquiry in Somalia with regard to the recent Sharia law case concerning a 13 year old girl who was raped. Senator Ormonde asked for a debate on Irish Aid, in the context of the recent visit by her and Senator Hannigan to Malawi. These issues deserve to be discussed in this House. We will speak to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Minister of State at that Department to arrange a debate on these matters.

Senator Hanafin raised the matter of buying Irish, which he pointed out is difficult to promote without falling foul of European law. He also pointed out that using this House as a platform to speak about such matters raises awareness among people of the importance of buying Irish goods, particularly in these economically changed times when we need to improve our balance of payments.

Senator Healy-Eames asked that the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment be invited to the House to debate unemployment. The issue of price differentials, as raised by Senator Hannigan, is also part of the Tánaiste's brief so we will make both requests to find out when the Minister might be able to come to the House.

Senator Norris raised the comments of Archbishop Brady today regarding the Civil Partnership Bill. Archbishop Brady, as a religious leader, has every right to express his views——