Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I share in the concern and sadness expressed in respect of Nepal and the terrible earthquake that occurred there. I commend the relief agencies, including Irish agencies, such as Concern and GOAL, which are on the ground and are helping speedily, in any way they can, to alleviate the suffering of those involved. There may be up to 10,000 casualties with 8 million people affected. It was an horrific event.

I also wish to congratulate Dr. Síofra O'Leary, who has been elected a judge of the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg. While people may not be aware of this, the Irish delegation last week voted en blocfor the appointment of Dr. O'Leary, who has a tremendous curriculum vitae and who is taking up that role as one of the 47 judges of the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg. As representatives of Ireland, we were delighted, when the recommendation came out, that the majority recommended her appointment. The entire assembly had a vote on this appointment and she received an overwhelming vote. She will take up her role shortly as a judge of the European Court of Human Rights and I extend best wishes to her on this appointment. At present she is working in Luxembourg and will head to Strasbourg to carry out a very important role. One of the most important roles of the Council of Europe is the Court of Human Rights. I am very pleased that a woman from Dublin has been appointed and has taken up that position.