Michael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I ask those who support Ms D'Arcy's cause to encourage her to enable her release as soon as possible. She is undergoing treatment for cancer and it is not appropriate that she be in prison. I encourage her early release, but she must come part of the way and meet the requirements of the prison authorities.

I join in welcoming today's announcement by the Tánaiste of an expansion in our embassy network. Of particular welcome is the fact that, for the first time, we will have embassies in the fast-growing economies of Thailand and Indonesia and the business hubs of Hong Kong and Sao Paulo. For the first time, an embassy will support the Irish Aid programme in Nairobi. Like others, I am pleased that the Tánaiste has decided to re-open the embassy at the Vatican. As a member of the foreign affairs committee, I am pleased that the Tánaiste listened to all of the measured contributions made during the past year. I have no doubt that, under the leadership of Pope Francis, the issues of poverty, hunger and human rights will be addressed by the Government in conjunction with the Vatican.

I strongly support Senator Bacik's call for an urgent debate on the worsening situation in Syria, the appalling loss of life there and the growing number of refugees filtering into neighbouring countries. If possible, will the Leader arrange the debate for next week?