Martin Conway (Fine Gael)

I commend Senator Mullen on highlighting this matter. We seem to be specialising in human rights as our theme for this term. This practice is a complete and total violation of human rights. I will not repeat what my colleagues on all sides of the House have said. The facts speak for themselves. The Government amendment does not name specific countries, but we know which of them are the biggest violators in this regard.

I would like to add another dimension to this debate. Perhaps it can be considered in the future. Some of the countries that have been named in this House have a policy of aborting foetuses that have been shown to have disabilities. This type of termination can take place when a medical expert has identified that a foetus is disabled in one way or another. Such appalling violations of human rights are worthy of examination by this House in the future. The Government, through its partners in Europe and throughout the world, should examine how it can highlight this appalling abuse of human rights. There is much to be said for the facilitation of further research by the UN and other organisations. There is significant anecdotal research in this regard. Senator Mullen is probably better briefed on it than me. There is significant anecdotal evidence that this type of cleansing is taking place. We have responsibilities.

Although the motion before the House is well worded, the amendment proposed by the Government is a more practical way of bringing all sides together. I hope the amendment will be seen in the context in which it is meant. This country is proud of its human rights record. It has campaigned internationally. Many of our expatriates are involved in the missionaries. This country can be proud of the role they are playing in protecting children abroad. This issue has been highlighted in The Economist and other reputable magazines. I hope we will see a worldwide solution to this appalling crime.