Michael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I support my colleagues' call for an investigation into the advice dispensed to women with crisis pregnancies. I was concerned to learn that my own town of Ballinasloe had been mentioned as one of the places in which this dangerous or illegal information was being dispensed.

It certainly warrants further investigation at the highest level, particularly as the HSE is providing the venues or funding sources for these advice centres.

In the light of the misappropriation of ¤4 million of Irish aid in Uganda, I would like the Minister of State with responsibility for overseas assistance to come to the House at an appropriate time for a discussion on how Irish aid is dispensed. I have every confidence that Irish Aid is doing a good job. It has put checks and balances in place to ensure money is spent properly. I compliment the Tánaiste on his swift movement in this issue. He has ensured the ¤4 million in question will be returned to the Government and that the people in Uganda who misappropriated it will be brought to justice. My main concern is that as a result of what has happened in Uganda, Irish people will be less likely to support worthy causes overseas and less supportive than they have been of what Irish Aid is doing. It would be a real travesty if the misappropriation that has happened in Uganda were to have a serious impact on the most deprived and unfortunate people on this planet. It is very important that the Minister of State come to the House to clarify the matter and clear up any misunderstanding there might be among the general public. We need to ensure there is support for Irish Aid and those working overseas to help and assist the vulnerable and deprived people in the world. Although what has happened in Uganda is unfortunate, at least the issue has been well handled. Having listened to local radio and read comments on social media, I am worried that Irish people are less likely to support good causes in the future. In that context, it would be no harm-----