Ivana Bacik (Independent)

However, whichever side of the debate Members are on, it is important that they contribute, as public representatives, to making it an informed debate. It has been useful to have already had a debate in this House on foot of a briefing by the Oireachtas Library and Research Service, which has contributed greatly to everyone's understanding of the referendum and of the treaty. Hopefully, it will feed into a wider public debate and all Members have a duty to ensure this is done.

I also call for a debate on human rights and on the death penalty in particular. I am conscious of a report published recently by Amnesty International on different levels of executions in different countries around the world and of serious concern being expressed about some countries in which it was impossible to verify the numbers of those to whom the death penalty was applied. Amnesty International noted a particular increase took place in Middle Eastern countries. At least 360 people were executed last year in Iran, 82 in Saudi Arabia and an unverifiable number in China, which was well in excess of the numbers there. While all Members welcome the reports of substantial Chinese investment in Ireland and while it is welcome to see the Taoiseach on a trade mission to China, one must ensure that human rights is also on the agenda there. I acknowledge the Taoiseach has stated it is and will be on the agenda whenever he meets Chinese leaders. However, a debate on the death penalty would be worthwhile in the context of the Amnesty International report.