Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail)

We should keep in mind that at a recent Republican Party rally, one of the leading contenders for the presidency of the United States, Texan Governor Rick Perry, boasted that his state had executed in excess of 200 people. He was asked by the interlocutor if he had sleepless nights over this, and before he could answer, the baying mob - the only way I can describe it - at the Republican rally applauded and cheered him. These are democrats who lecture the rest of the world in democracy. That is the sort of reality we face with our allies and friends, and the point is often made that the US is our strongest ally.

Senator Norris and I have visited various countries, particularly in the Middle East, where this point was repeatedly made. As friends and allies, we have a responsibility and obligation to point out when there is a flaw in a particular policy. That is not interference but a show of concern for what is a basic human right. In the context of what has been raised today, I ask that the Leader seek the Government to express serious concern about what has happened. It should reiterate that we, as a civilised country which is part of the European Union and Council of Europe, are totally and unequivocally opposed to the death penalty.