Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I support the call by Senator Ivana Bacik regarding the situation in Ukraine. It would be very worthwhile to have the Tánaiste come in and brief the House on the situation. It is still very tense in the region and there is no evidence of a united approach from the European Union. This morning we heard the Foreign Minister of Spain complimenting the Russian Foreign Minister on oil agreements, tourism from Russia and other issues which are not of paramount importance in the context of the situation in Crimea. A house divided will not stand and it is imperative that we see a more unified approach from the EU. Meanwhile, a tape played on "Tonight with Vincent Browne" last night showed the influence of the United States Department of State, with the ambassador in Ukraine recommending applicants for ministerial positions in the interim, unelected, Government of Ukraine. The situation is very tense but we hope it will be resolved peacefully. It has repercussions globally, including for us in Ireland.

Given that this is International Women's Week, will the Committee on Procedure and Privileges consider inviting Ms Anne Brasseur from Luxembourg, the newly elected President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, to address the House?