Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I am aware of that, but I raise the issue in the context of the Social Welfare and Pensions Bill. Perhaps the Leader might indicate when it is intended to take that Bill because I am referring certain provisions contained in it.

On an unrelated matter, the continuing sectarian war in the Middle East is a source of great concern. It might appear that it involves countries about which we in this country know little and care less but nothing could be further from the truth. There are substantial oil deposits in Iraq and the war could have a detrimental effect on the Irish economy. I would be grateful if the Leader invited the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to come to the House to make a statement on Ireland's position on the war and also update us on the European Union's position on the action, if any, it intends to take. There appears to be no international reaction to the war, perhaps because people are waiting to see what will happen militarily. The issue is fraught with complexity and it would be helpful to have a debate or at least be given an indication from the Minister as to the Ireland's and the European Union's position on it.