Fiona O'Malley (Progressive Democrats)

The sense of hope and belief in politics and that politics is the art the possible that has permeated America and the world must give hope to Members who believe in that art of the possible. As all parliaments face very difficult economic times and choices, it is refreshing to look to America and see the sense of hope and belief in politics there. Long may that continue and prosper. We are all better served if people believe in politics and their politicians. I listened with interest to Senator O'Toole. We need to be careful. It is not all rosy for us and the Presidency of President-elect Obama possibly has implications for Ireland.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Micheál Martin, speaking on the radio this morning mentioned a change in the world order. He made particular reference to the change in the UN. I ask the Leader for a debate on this, because what is happening in the Congo is something that must concern anyone with a sense of decency or humanity. The lawlessness that pervades part of that country has allowed militia and guerillas to inflict fear, murder and rape on ordinary citizens.

We have all heard the cry not to let a second Rwanda happen, but unfortunately the world is standing by and allowing that to happen. The major problem is the UN because it does not have what is needed to tackle the issues. What has the world learnt after Rwanda? Is it going to happen again? I ask the Leader to ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs to come to the House to discuss the UN. The previous Secretary General of the UN tried valiantly to change the organisation, but the difficulty is that the UN looks after countries, not citizens. It should begin and end with human beings and that is why we need a change. With the change in America, it is time to see if the new Secretary General of the UN can initiate change so that we do not preside over a second Rwanda.