Caít Keane (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I was listening to a radio programme this morning when the issue of sexual violence against women arose. This is an opportune day to put back on the agenda the issue I raised with the Taoiseach when he was in the House with members of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly, namely, United Nations Security Resolution 1325. I work with Hanna's House in Dublin on sexual violence against women. The Taoiseach and the Tánaiste have responded positively to that issue because the Government launched a national action plan on United Nations Security Resolution 1325 but when EU resolutions are passed every EU country must ensure that those resolutions are implemented. The Leader has asked all Members to put various items on the agenda for Private Members' motions. This is one of my pet motions and I hope the Leader will look favourably on it.

I commend Senator Norris on raising the issue earlier, particularly on the day when the man who was charged with a violent sexual assault on a 17 year old woman can avoid a jail sentence if he pays ¤15,000. There are certain things money cannot buy, and sex is one of them. We all know it is called prostitution but I do not see the difference. I want the issue of violence against women to be debated in this House. I raised it with the Taoiseach and, under the auspices of Resolution 1325, with Hanna's House which is supporting this issue and doing great work on it. Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly Resolution 1670 makes sexual violence against women in armed conflict a war crime. Unfortunately, many war crimes are committed against women. It may not be a bullet that is used but we have seen sexual violence perpetrated against women throughout the world. I want a debate on that issue. I thank Senator Norris for raising it earlier. I want us to ensure that this country takes the issue seriously on a day when a man can pay ¤15,000 to have his sentence suspended while another man was sent to jail for six years for non-payment of garlic import duty. Where are our priorities?