Dan Boyle (Green Party)

I thank Senators for the support they have shown to this Bill and commend them on their considered contributions. The research they put into preparing their speeches reveals a common belief that we can and should address this issue. I am grateful for the intellectual investment Senators have made in the Bill. Senators Cummins, Norris, Ormonde, Hannigan, Quinn, Ó Brolcháin and Dearey have demonstrated the role this House can play. I thank the Minister of State, in particular, for the support he has offered. As a Member of this House, he was one of the first parliamentarians in the world to move a motion in support of Aung San Suu Kyi. This country can play a valuable role in fostering debates, identifying clear injustices and taking a collegial approach to the resolution of international conflicts.

This evening's contributions have comprised various descriptions of the moral and medical effects of these weapons. While it was pointed out that research in this area is inconclusive, there seems to be a wide variation between the studies conducted on behalf of agencies with a vested interest in the continued use of these weapons and the information acquired by doctors on the ground in areas where the weapons have been deployed. Senator Quinn outlined particularly stark statistics on the increase in the incidence of cancers in the Balkans and Iraq. His evidence appears to indicate a close causal relationship which should give rise to concern. Of course, the findings of these surveys are irrelevant to those who suffer from the cancers, whether caused by high levels of radiation or heavy metals. This type of weaponry is at the heart of the difficulties they are experiencing and we need to ensure they are put out of commission in the immediate future.

Several speakers highlighted the difficulties involved in stopping these weapons. Senator Norris noted man's ingenuity to inflict pain on himself even when dealing with natural catastrophes. He has pointed out that 17 countries have access to depleted uranium weapons. We need to build coalitions with other countries to make sure they understand these weapons are not accepted internationally. That will be a hard sell. Senator Hannigan pointed out that three of the aforementioned 17 countries are EU member states. Ironically given the economic circumstances we all face, Greece is one of these countries.

Through his campaigning for the Lisbon treaty, the Minister of State has built an expertise on the type of coalition building that will allow Ireland's voice to be heard on these issues. I am confident that tonight's debate will build on that experience. It will allow other legislators to examine what we are doing today and pass similar legislation, just as we have gained from and, as Senator Norris said, improved on legislation passed in Belgium dealing with the definition of the weapons in question, how they might be categorised and, as far as this jurisdiction is concerned, not used, transported or portrayed in a particular way.

On these grounds, the Seanad has done itself proud and shown why it exists. It engages in debate slightly outside the temperament of the nation but gives consideration to issues that otherwise would not be considered. In the 90 or so minutes of debate we have provided a justification for the existence of this House and helped to progress legislation that otherwise would not have been given attention. I am grateful to the Members who contributed to the debate and for the support forthcoming.