Ivana Bacik (Independent)

Like other Members, I would like to welcome the Tánaiste to the House. I commend him on his work as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. He is enhancing Ireland's international reputation. Like other Senators, I commend the important stance the Tánaiste has taken on Gaza and on Palestinian rights. It serves to maintain and enhance this country's reputation as a protector of human rights.

I would like to echo Senator van Turnhout in urging the Tánaiste to take a strong line in support of the Indonesian civil servant she mentioned. We need to examine our blasphemy law because it is clearly having a repressive effect in Indonesia, Pakistan and other countries. I know the matter will be reviewed as part of the constitutional convention, but I believe the law should be repealed. Perhaps progress can be made more quickly in this regard.

In light of Ireland's changing relations with states like China and India, which used to be recipients of aid but are now more like donors to the EU, should we consider establishing a more formalised programme of student exchange with those countries? Our third level institutions are making great strides to encourage and attract Indian and Chinese students to come here. We should be sending our students over there as well. The Tánaiste will be aware that we have sent many of our students abroad under the Erasmus programme, which has helped to enhance our linguistic abilities and this country's reputation across the EU. Does he agree that we should develop a more formal programme of student exchange with China and India?